panther

noun

pan·​ther ˈpan(t)-thər How to pronounce panther (audio)
plural panthers also panther
1
: leopard: such as
a
: a leopard of a hypothetical exceptionally large fierce variety
b
: a leopard of the black color phase
2
3
: jaguar

Examples of panther in a Sentence

the panther is surprisingly difficult to spot
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Male panthers have a territory of up to 200 square miles, according to wildlife experts, which inevitably brings them into contact with roads, leading to fatal interactions. Olivia Lloyd, Miami Herald, 11 Mar. 2025 Juvenile male panthers such as the roughly 1½ -year-old animal that died are more susceptible to vehicle strikes than other members of their species, with panthers under 3 years old representing about 70% of all road kills, according to the FWC. Olivia Lloyd, Orlando Sentinel, 8 Mar. 2025 Saldaña’s necklace has a panther head at the clasp with a rectangular emerald jewel at its mouth, with contrasting black jewels for the animal’s stripes. Kathleen Walsh, Glamour, 3 Mar. 2025 As for her accessories, Saldaña opted for a pair of stud earrings and a bold statement choker with emeralds and panther inspiration courtesy of Cartier. Julia Teti, WWD, 2 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for panther

Word History

Etymology

Middle English pantere, from Anglo-French panthere, from Latin panthera, from Greek panthēr

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of panther was in the 13th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Panther.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/panther. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

panther

noun
pan·​ther ˈpan(t)-thər How to pronounce panther (audio)
plural panthers also panther
1
: leopard
especially : one that is black
2
: cougar
3
: jaguar

More from Merriam-Webster on panther

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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