noun
lion
LYE-un/ˈlaɪən/
A large powerful wild cat whose males generally have a mane.
The male lion stands with his full mane framing his face.
Etymology
Greek leōn already named the animal, so English preserves its basic meaning. Its earlier source was non-Indo-European, perhaps Semitic, but the particular origin is uncertain.
In context
But in the wild, such beauty is a death sentence. A white coat reflects light, rendering the white lion nearly incapable of camouflage
More examples
- We hear a lion roar beyond the tall grass.
- Several lions rest in the shade during the afternoon.
- A female lion keeps her cubs close.
Forms
lion · lions
lioness noun — A female lion, usually without a mane.
Similar words
- big cat
- A broader term that also includes tigers and leopards.