Cougar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
cougar
[หkuหษกษr ]
Definition
wildlife
A large, powerful, tawny-brown cat native to the Americas, known for its strength and agility. Cougars are solitary animals and primarily hunt deer and other small mammals.
Synonyms
mountain lion, puma.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| cougar |
Cougar is commonly used in North America to refer to a large wild cat found primarily in mountainous regions. It is also widely known in popular culture and general conversation. Informally, it can also have a negative connotation when used to describe an older woman who seeks romantic relationships with much younger men.
|
| mountain lion |
Mountain lion is often used in more formal or technical contexts, particularly when describing the animal in nature documentaries, educational materials, and scientific discussions.
|
| puma |
Puma is a term more commonly used outside of North America and in scientific contexts. It's frequently used in South America, where the animal is widely found, and among biologists and zoologists.
|
Examples of usage
- The cougar silently stalked its prey through the forest.
- Despite its size, the cougar moved with grace and speed.
- The cougar is also known as a mountain lion or puma.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Habitat and Ecology
- Cougars are adaptable and can be found in various environments, from forests to deserts to mountains.
- They are solitary animals and usually live alone, marking their territory with scratch marks and scent.
Cultural Significance
- In some Native American cultures, this animal is viewed as a symbol of strength and courage.
- Modern culture often uses the term 'cougar' to refer to older women who romantically pursue younger men, reflecting societal views on age and relationships.
Conservation Status
- Once heavily hunted, cougars are now protected in many regions and have rebounded in their populations.
- Conservationists emphasize the importance of cougars for maintaining the balance of local ecosystems.
Behavior
- Cougars are known for their stealth and are often referred to as 'ghosts of the woods' due to their ability to move silently.
- They can leap up to 15 feet in the air, showcasing their impressive agility and power.
Origin of 'cougar'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'cougar' originates from the Portuguese word 'รงรบcar,' which means 'hunter.'
- Earlier, the animal was referred to as โpuma,โ from the Inca word 'puma,' meaning 'powerful.'
The word 'cougar' originated from the Tupi language in South America, where it was known as 'cuguacuarana', meaning 'false deer'. The term was later anglicized to 'cougar' and became popular in the English language to refer to this large wild cat.