panther

noun

pan·​ther ˈpan(t)-thər 

plural panthers also panther

1

: leopard: such as

a

: a leopard of a hypothetical exceptionally large fierce variety

b

: a leopard of the black color phase

2

: cougar sense 1 compare florida panther

3

: jaguar

Synonyms of panther

• cougar
• puma

Examples of panther in a Sentence

the panther is surprisingly difficult to spot

Recent Examples on the Web

In his first interview since the tragic events in May, Cacique, a Spanish nickname given to a local boss, said the turncoats hoped to receive a reward for the capture of Robert Colina, whose alias was Pantera, Spanish for panther. —Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 7 Nov. 2025

Footage of the incident shows the mountain lion — the species also known as a cougar, puma or panther — lurking in some brush at the Orange County park, peeking its face tentatively from a spot behind some leaves. —Bailey Richards, PEOPLE, 5 Nov. 2025

Ten minutes before kickoff on the first Friday in October, the giant inflatable tunnel sags and the giant inflatable panther perched atop it is just about snout-to-turf. —Brian Hamilton, New York Times, 17 Oct. 2025

Slimmed down and lithe, Tatum’s panther-like physicality showcases Jeffrey’s preternatural ability to master his environment through keen observation and sheer determination. —Katie Walsh, Twin Cities, 11 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pantere, from Anglo-French panthere, from Latin panthera, from Greek panthēr

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing panther

• Florida panther

Rhymes for panther

• anther

Kids Definition

panther

noun

pan·​ther ˈpan(t)-thər 

plural panthers also panther

1

: leopard

especially : one that is black

2

: cougar

3

: jaguar