Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Jaguar Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🐆
Add to dictionary

jaguar

[ˈdʒÃĶÉĄwɑːr ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

wild animal

A large wild cat found in the Americas, typically with a yellowish-brown coat marked with black spots and stripes. Jaguars are powerful predators known for their strength and agility.

Synonyms

big cat, panther, wildcat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
jaguar

Use 'jaguar' when referring specifically to the large cat species native to the Americas, known for its powerful build and often yellow coat with black rosettes.

  • The jaguar is the largest cat native to the Americas.
  • We saw a jaguar resting by the river while on a safari.
panther

Use 'panther' to describe melanistic big cats, which are normally leopards or jaguars with a black coat, or more broadly to refer to any large wildcat depending on regional usage.

  • The jungle was silent as the panther moved stealthily through the underbrush.
  • In some cultures, the panther is a symbol of strength and mystery.
big cat

Use 'big cat' to generally refer to large predatory felines, such as lions, tigers, leopards, and jaguars, in a broader context without specifying the exact species.

  • Big cats are apex predators in their habitats.
  • She studies the behavior of big cats in the wild.
wildcat

Use 'wildcat' to refer to any felines that live in the wild and are not domesticated, often smaller than big cats and including species like the European wildcat or bobcats.

  • The wildcat is known for its solitary and secretive nature.
  • Wildcats are adept hunters, often preying on small mammals and birds.

Examples of usage

  • The jaguar is the largest cat species in the Americas.
  • The jaguar's powerful jaws enable it to crush the skulls of its prey.
Context #2 | Noun

car brand

A British luxury car manufacturer known for producing high-performance sports cars. Jaguar cars are renowned for their sleek design and powerful engines.

Synonyms

automobile, luxury car, sports car.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
jaguar

A specific brand of luxury and performance cars. It is often used in advertisements, reviews, or conversations about high-end vehicles.

  • He decided to buy a new Jaguar after getting promoted
  • Jaguars are known for their elegant design and high performance
luxury car

Refers to a car that provides higher levels of comfort, equipment, amenities, quality, performance, and status. It is usually used when talking about expensive and high-end cars.

  • Living in the city, she still opted for a luxury car because of the comfort it provided
  • Luxury cars often come with advanced technology and superior craftsmanship
sports car

A small, usually two-seater, two-door automobile designed for high-speed and quick maneuverability. It is often mentioned in discussions about car performance, speed, and driving experience.

  • He loves the thrill of driving a sports car on the open road
  • Sports cars are designed to offer an exhilarating driving experience
automobile

A general term for any car. It is suitable for formal writing or contexts where the type of car isn't specified.

  • The invention of the automobile revolutionized transportation
  • She purchased a new automobile for her daily commute

Examples of usage

  • The latest Jaguar model boasts cutting-edge technology and luxurious features.
  • She drove a Jaguar convertible along the scenic coastal road.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Habitat

  • Jaguars primarily inhabit the rainforests of Central and South America, but they can also be found in savannas and scrublands.
  • They are great swimmers, allowing them to thrive in areas near lakes and rivers where they hunt for fish.

Cultural Significance

  • In many ancient cultures, like the Mayans and Aztecs, jaguars were symbols of strength, power, and the underworld.
  • They often appeared in mythology and art, representing ferocity and the ability to protect oneself.

Conservation Status

  • Currently, jaguars are listed as near-threatened due to habitat loss and poaching, raising concerns about their future.
  • Conservation efforts are underway in many countries to protect their populations and habitats.

Biology

  • Jaguars have the strongest bite force of all big cats, allowing them to crush turtle shells and the skulls of prey.
  • Their unique spot patterns, known as rosettes, help them camouflage in the dappled light of forests.

Origin of 'jaguar'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'jaguar' comes from the Native American word 'yaguar,' which means 'he who kills with one leap.'
  • This name reflects its hunting prowess, as jaguars are known for their incredible ability to pounce and capture prey.

The word 'jaguar' originates from the indigenous Tupian language of South America, where it was used to refer to this majestic wild cat. European explorers adopted the term, and it became widely recognized as the name for this iconic big cat species. In the automotive context, the name 'Jaguar' was chosen by the British car manufacturer Sir William Lyons in 1935 to evoke the speed, elegance, and power associated with the big cat. Since then, the Jaguar brand has become synonymous with luxury and performance in the automotive industry.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,265, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.