rhizoverbBeta
DictionarypantherBlack leopard or jaguar
noun

panther

A leopard or jaguar with a black coat.

The black panther walks with faint rosettes visible through its coat.

A single black panther, depicted accurately as a melanistic leopard, walking in profile with faint rosettes visible in its dark coat.
Etymology
pantherLatinpanther or leopard

The older name referred broadly to a large spotted cat. Modern black panther applies it to dark-coated leopards or jaguars, with the color description sometimes left unstated.

In context

National Geographic0:16
whether it's called Cougar Mountain Lion Panther or Puma this majestic animal is a shy but lethal Predator
Big Cats: Washington Cougars | National Geographic

More examples

  • A panther rested in the shade.
  • The photograph shows a melanistic panther.
  • Several panthers were discussed in the wildlife lecture.

Forms

panther · panthers

Similar words

leopard
Leopard does not specify a black coat.
jaguar
A jaguar is a different cat that can also be called a black panther.