What does hyena mean?
A hyena is a powerful carnivorous mammal, best known for its spotted or striped coat, sloping back, and scavenger’s habit of consuming carrion. Although hyenas hunt and scavenge, they are not merely scavengers: many species actively pursue prey, and their jaws are strong enough to break bones. They live in complex social groups, often called clans, and communicate through varied calls, including a distinctive sound commonly described as laughter-like. In figurative use, “hyena” is a harsh, derogatory term for a person portrayed as greedy, cruel, deceitful, or willing to profit from another’s weakness. The word is familiar in both British and American English and appears in wildlife writing, literature, and political commentary, where its vivid association with ferocity and opportunism makes it especially memorable.
A carnivorous, doglike mammal native to Africa and parts of Asia, with a spotted or striped coat, sloping hindquarters, and powerful jaws.
"A hyena emerged from the tall grass carrying a piece of meat in its jaws."
A person regarded as cruel, greedy, treacherous, or contemptible.
"He behaved like a hyena, attacking the weakest member of the group whenever possible."
The standard plural is “hyenas,” with the added s pronounced /z/.
"Hyenas patrol the edges of the camp, waiting for an opportunity to feed."
Hyenas hunt in coordinated family clans, and their powerful jaws can crack bones that many other predators leave behind.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hyena come from?
The English word comes through Latin from Greek hyaina, a term used for the spotted hyena. Greek hyaina was probably related to a root associated with hyena’s characteristic coloring or patterning, although the precise ancient derivation is uncertain.
How hyena is actually used
The animal sense is the standard modern usage. The figurative sense is strongly derogatory and is used to characterize someone as ravenous, deceitful, or degradingly opportunistic.
Easily confused with hyena
A hyena is a stocky, powerful scavenger with prominent shoulders and sloping hindquarters, whereas a jackal is a smaller, slender member of the dog family.