Hyena: meaning, definitions and examples
๐ฆ
hyena
[ haษชหiห.nษ ]
animal behavior
The hyena is a carnivorous mammal known for its distinctive laugh-like vocalizations. These animals are highly social and often live in groups called clans. They are known for their scavenging habits, though they are also skilled hunters.
Synonyms
carnivore, predator, scavenger
Examples of usage
- The hyena is often misunderstood as a coward.
- Hyenas communicate with a series of whoops and laughs.
- In some cultures, hyenas are seen as symbols of cunning.
Translations
Translations of the word "hyena" in other languages:
๐ต๐น hiena
๐ฎ๐ณ เคนเคพเคเคจเคพ
๐ฉ๐ช Hyรคne
๐ฎ๐ฉ hyena
๐บ๐ฆ ะณััะฝะฐ
๐ต๐ฑ hiena
๐ฏ๐ต ใใคใจใ
๐ซ๐ท hyรจne
๐ช๐ธ hiena
๐น๐ท cรผce
๐ฐ๐ท ํ์ด์๋
๐ธ๐ฆ ุถุจุน
๐จ๐ฟ hyena
๐ธ๐ฐ hyena
๐จ๐ณ ้ฌฃ็
๐ธ๐ฎ hiena
๐ฎ๐ธ hรฝena
๐ฐ๐ฟ ะณะธะตะฝะฐ
๐ฌ๐ช แฐแแแแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ hiyena
๐ฒ๐ฝ hiena
Word origin
The word 'hyena' originates from the Latin word 'hyaena', which in turn comes from the Greek word 'แฝฮฑฮนฮฝฮฑ' (huaina). This Greek term is believed to derive from the ancient Semitic languages. In the Middle Ages, hyenas were often considered creatures of myth and folklore, perceived as harbingers of doom or associated with witchcraft. Their reputation in various cultures has shifted too; in some, they are regarded as clever and resourceful, while in others, they are seen as malicious and cowardly. Despite these varied perceptions, the hyena is an important part of ecosystems in African savannas and is known for its unique social structure and vocal communication.