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DictionaryjackalWild doglike mammal
noun

jackal

JAK-ul/ˈdʒækl/

A doglike African or Asian mammal known for scavenging.

A jackal searches the dry grassland for scraps of food.

A golden jackal scavenges a small, dry carcass remnant, its pointed muzzle, large upright ears, grizzled golden coat and low bushy tail clearly visible.
Etymology
jackalPersianjackal

Persian shaghal already names this animal; it is derived from or cognate with a Sanskrit name meaning “the howler.” That connection associates the animal’s name with its cries.

In context

Our World31:20
this Scorpion's Venom can kill a jackal
Mongoose: The Story Of An Unlikely Predator | Our World

More examples

  • Two jackals feed on the remains of an antelope.
  • We hear a jackal howling beyond the campsite.
  • The jackal pounces on a mouse in the grass.

Forms

jackal · jackals

Similar words

coyote
A similar wild canine native to North America.
fox
Usually has a bushier tail and a more pointed muzzle.