panther

noun

pan·​ther ˈpan(t)-thər 

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

: cougar sense 1 compare florida panther

3

: jaguar

Synonyms

• cougar
• puma

Examples of panther in a Sentence

the panther is surprisingly difficult to spot

Recent Examples on the Web

The necklace, made in 18k yellow gold, featured a delicate, studded chain that held a gold panther covered in black lacquered spots. —Starr Bowenbank, People.com, 12 Aug. 2025

Constricting their territory can lead to more panthers killing other panthers and strains on resources like food and shelter. —Miami Herald, 6 Aug. 2025

Already, 20 to 30 of Florida’s endangered panthers, which number roughly 200 adults, are killed by cars each year. —Elise Bennett, The Orlando Sentinel, 3 Aug. 2025

More on the legend from Bud: Fact check: Nobody ever actually saw a panther. —Matt Leclercq, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 July 2025

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

Phrases Containing panther

• Florida panther

Rhymes for panther

• anther

Kids Definition

panther

noun

pan·​ther ˈpan(t)-thər 

plural panthers also panther

1

: leopard

especially : one that is black

2

: cougar

3

: jaguar