Puma Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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puma
[ˈpjuːmə ]
Definitions
wildlife
A large, powerful wildcat with a tan or yellow coat, found in the Americas.
Synonyms
cougar, mountain lion, panther.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| puma |
This term is commonly used globally and can refer to both the animal and brands or other uses. Often utilized in a more general and less scientific context.
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| mountain lion |
Primarily used in the western United States. Often in more formal or descriptive contexts, such as wildlife documentaries or when discussing the animal's habitat.
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| cougar |
Predominantly used in North America to refer to the same animal as the puma. Additionally, the term can have a colloquial, sometimes negative connotation when describing an older woman dating a much younger man.
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| panther |
Typically refers to the black variant of the puma, but can also mean other big cats like leopards and jaguars. This term can cause confusion and is usually used in a more dramatic or literary context.
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Examples of usage
- Pumas are also known as mountain lions or cougars.
- The puma is a solitary animal, hunting mainly at night.
- They are excellent climbers and can leap great distances.
- Pumas are known for their stealth and agility in hunting.
- The puma is a top predator in its ecosystem.
sports
A brand of athletic and casual footwear, apparel, and accessories.
Synonyms
athletic brand, sneaker brand, sportswear brand.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| puma |
Refers to the specific global athletic brand known for producing sportswear, shoes, and accessories. It's used in consumer contexts, marketing, and discussions about fashion and sportswear.
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| sportswear brand |
Used to describe companies that focus on producing clothing and accessories for sports and physical activities. This term is broader than 'sneaker brand' and includes any kind of sportswear beyond just shoes.
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| athletic brand |
This term is used to refer to companies that produce products catering to athletes and active individuals. It covers a broad range of products including clothing, shoes, and gear designed for sports and exercise.
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| sneaker brand |
Used to describe brands that primarily specialize in producing sneakers. It often comes up in conversations about fashion, casual wear, and specific types of footwear.
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Examples of usage
- She bought a new pair of Puma sneakers for her workouts.
- The Puma logo is a distinctive image in the sports industry.
- Puma products are known for their quality and style.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Habitat
- Pumas are found in various habitats, from forests to deserts, demonstrating their adaptability.
- They are most commonly spotted in the Americas, from Canada down to the southern tip of South America.
Cultural Significance
- In various Native American cultures, the puma is seen as a symbol of strength and leadership.
- The puma has been celebrated in folklore and art, often representing agility and stealth in hunting.
Behavior
- Pumas are solitary creatures, often stalking their prey alone, which adds to their mysterious nature.
- They are known for their impressive leaping ability, capable of jumping up to 18 feet high in a single bound.
Conservation
- Currently, pumas face threats due to habitat loss and hunting, making conservation efforts essential.
- In some areas, they are considered a keystone species, meaning their presence helps maintain the balance of the ecosystem.
Origin of 'puma'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'puma' comes from the Andean language of Quechua, where it was originally 'puma' meaning 'powerful'.
- Many people also refer to this cat by other names, such as mountain lion or cougar, which reflect its broad range across different regions.
The word 'puma' originated from the Quechua language of South America. It was first recorded in English in the late 18th century. Pumas have long been a symbol of power, agility, and grace in various cultures, especially among indigenous peoples of the Americas. The Puma brand, known for its athletic products, was founded in Germany in 1948 by Rudolf Dassler, the brother of Adidas founder Adolf Dassler.