leopard

noun

leop·​ard ˈle-pərd 

1

a

: a large strong cat (Panthera pardus) of southern Asia and Africa that is adept at climbing and is usually tawny or buff with black spots arranged in rosettes

called also panther

b

: the fur or pelt of a leopard

2

: a heraldic representation of a lion passant guardant

Illustration of leopard

• leopard 1

Examples of leopard in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite the name of the species, clouded leopards aren't actually true leopards. —Dan Raby, CBS News, 16 Apr. 2026

After all, South Luangwa has one of the highest concentrations of leopards in all of Africa. —Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 15 Apr. 2026

The Rhode founder paired the sheer moment with black shorts, black boots, and a statement leopard-print jacket. —Juliana Ukiomogbe, InStyle, 13 Apr. 2026

Shoppers also appreciate the selection of more than 20 color options, including classic brown, metallic silver, and a sassy leopard print. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French lepart, leupart, from Late Latin leopardus, from Greek leopardos, from leōn lion + pardos leopard

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing leopard

• a leopard can't change its spots
• clouded leopard
• leopard cat
• leopard frog
• leopard seal
• snow leopard

Rhymes for leopard

• peppered
• shepherd

Kids Definition

leopard

noun

leop·​ard ˈlep-ərd 

: a large strong cat of southern Asia and Africa that has a brownish buff coat with black spots arranged in broken rings

called also panther