panda

noun

pan·​da ˈpan-də 

1

: red panda

2

: a large black-and-white mammal (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) of chiefly central China that feeds primarily on bamboo shoots and is now usually classified with the bears (family Ursidae)

called also giant panda

Illustration of panda

• A red panda
• B panda 2

Examples of panda in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As there are often substantial difficulties in getting female and male pandas to mate, scientists often rely on artificial insemination procedures. —Erin Clack, Peoplemag, 17 Aug. 2024

For more on pandas and panda diplomacy, check out our special deep dive episode from earlier this summer. —Taylor Wilson, USA TODAY, 10 Aug. 2024

The website said the pandas will spend several weeks acclimating to their new home. —Amanda Musa, CNN, 9 July 2024

The San Francisco Zoo will also welcome pandas later this year. —Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

French, perhaps from a language of the southeast Himalayas

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing panda

• giant panda
• lesser panda
• panda car
• red panda

Kids Definition

panda

noun

pan·​da ˈpan-də 

1

: red panda

2

: a large black and white mammal of chiefly central China that feeds primarily on bamboo shoots and is now usually considered to be closely related to the bears

called also giant panda