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 bravado of his flowing mullet and leopard print G-string, Pat is tragically ill-equipped for today’s rules of engagement. — Sheena McKenzie, CNN Money, 19 Aug. 2026

Similar urinary compounds were also found in lions, leopards, tigers, lynxes, jaguars, and other feline species. — Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 19 Aug. 2026

In addition to classic beige like Lopez’s pair, these faux leather ballet flats come in 22 colors and patterns, including wine red and leopard print. — Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 18 Aug. 2026

The main residence offers four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a flamboyant leopard-print powder room. — Tori Latham, Robb Report, 17 Aug. 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