cougar
UK[ˈkuːɡə(r)]US[ˈkuːɡər]
n
a large american wild cat with yellowish-brown fur.
Etymology
the word 'cougar' entered the english language in the late 18th century via french, derived from the tupi-guarani term cuguacuarana. the original indigenous term was likely subject to folk etymology and shortening by portuguese and french colonists before its adoption into english. it serves as a prime example of a new world loanword, where european languages borrowed directly from native american languages to name local fauna. the term's journey reflects the colonial exchange and the need for a specific label for an animal unknown in the old world.
Analysis
this word is a loanword from french, which adapted it from the tupi-guarani (indigenous brazilian) word cuguacuarana. its form in english is not composed of separable english or classical morphemes.
Examples
the hiker was cautious, knowing a cougar had been spotted in the area.
the cougar is also commonly known as a puma or mountain lion.
conservation efforts have helped stabilize the cougar population in some regions.