panther etymology

Etymology

The word "panther" originates from the Ancient Greek word "πάνθηρ" (pánthēr), which in turn is derived from the Proto-Indo-European root "peh₂n-", meaning "wild beast."

Meaning

In modern English, "panther" primarily refers to a large, spotted feline that is native to Africa, Asia, and the Americas. Specifically, it is used to describe:

• The leopard (Panthera pardus) in Africa and Asia
• The jaguar (Panthera onca) in the Americas

Origin

The word "panther" entered the English language via Old French in the 14th century. It was originally used to refer to any large, spotted feline, including leopards, jaguars, and cougars. However, over time, its usage became more specific, and it is now primarily used to describe the species mentioned above.

Additional Notes

• The term "panther" is sometimes incorrectly used to refer to black leopards. The proper term for a black leopard is "melanistic leopard."
• The word "panther" is also used metaphorically to describe something that is graceful, powerful, or elusive.

panther relate terms

• cougar

  Etymology The word cougar derives from the Quechua term cuguacuar Meaning A cougar

• jaguar

  Etymology The word jaguar comes from the Tupi language of Brazil It is derived from t

• leopard

  Etymology The word leopard comes from the Late Latin leopardus which is derived from

• right

  Etymology The word right comes from the Old English word riht which is derived fro

• pertain

  Etymology Latin pertinēre to belong to to have a relation to to concern Proto In

• mountain

  Etymology The word mountain comes from the Old French word munt which in turn deriv

• lion

  Etymology The word lion comes from the Latin word leo which is derived from the Gree

• render

  Etymology Old French rendre Late Latin reddere Proto Indo European red Meaning