Hyena

Pronunciation: /haɪˈinə/

Definitions of hyena

noun a large carnivorous mammal native to Africa and Asia, known for its scavenging habits and distinctive laughing sound

Example Sentences

A1 The hyena is a wild animal.

A2 Hyenas are known for their distinctive laughter-like vocalizations.

B1 A group of hyenas is called a clan.

B2 Hyenas are skilled hunters and scavengers.

C1 Hyenas have a complex social structure within their clans.

C2 Researchers have observed hyenas exhibiting problem-solving skills in the wild.

Examples of hyena in a Sentence

formal The hyena is a carnivorous mammal known for its distinctive laugh-like vocalization.

informal I saw a hyena at the zoo yesterday, it was pretty cool.

slang That guy's laugh sounds like a hyena, it's so loud and obnoxious.

figurative The scavenger acted like a hyena, always looking for opportunities to take advantage of others.

Grammatical Forms of hyena

• plural: hyenas
• comparative: more hyena
• superlative: most hyena
• present tense: hyena
• future tense: will hyena
• perfect tense: have hyena
• continuous tense: am hyenaing
• singular: hyena
• positive degree: hyena
• infinitive: to hyena
• gerund: hyenaing
• participle: hyenaed

Origin and Evolution of hyena

First Known Use: 1601 year

Language of Origin: Greek/Latin

Story behind the word: The word 'hyena' originated from the Greek word 'hyaina' which is derived from the Latin word 'hyaena' and ultimately from the Greek word 'hys' meaning 'pig'.

Evolution of the word: The word 'hyena' has retained its original meaning of a carnivorous mammal known for its scavenging habits, but has also been used metaphorically to describe a person who preys on others or behaves in a sneaky or untrustworthy manner.