leopard
UK[ˈlep.əd]US[ˈlep.ɚd]
n
a large wild cat that has yellow fur with black spots, and lives in africa and southern asia.
Etymology
the word 'leopard' has a fascinating, if mistaken, ancient lineage. it originates from the greek 'leopardos', a compound of 'leon' (lion) and 'pardos' (panther or male panther). this name reflects the ancient belief that the leopard was a hybrid creature, specifically a cross between a lion and a panther. through late latin 'leopardus' and old french 'leupart', the word entered middle english, gradually simplifying in spelling to its current form while retaining its core meaning for the distinct spotted feline, separate from the erroneous hybrid origin story.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword. it entered english from old french, which derived it from late latin and ultimately from greek. its spelling and form have been fused and cannot be meaningfully segmented into modern english morphemes.
Examples
a leopard can be recognized by its distinctive rosette-shaped spots.
the elusive snow leopard lives in the mountain ranges of central asia.
it is said that a leopard cannot change its spots.