bobcat

American  

[bob-kat] / ˈbɒbˌkæt /

noun

plural

bobcats,

plural

bobcat

1. a North American wildcat, Lynx rufus, ranging from southern Canada to central Mexico, having a brownish coat with black spots.

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bobcat British  

/ ˈbɒbˌkæt /

noun

1. Also called: bay lynx.  a North American feline mammal, Lynx rufus , closely related to but smaller than the lynx, having reddish-brown fur with dark spots or stripes, tufted ears, and a short tail

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Etymology

Origin of bobcat

An Americanism dating back to 1885–90; bob(tail) + cat ( def. )

Compare meaning

How does bobcat compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• lynx vs. bobcat
• ocelot vs. bobcat

Example Sentences

His security cameras once captured a bobcat walking past a feral cat on his property.

From Los Angeles Times

In the Vermont woods where Mr. Hoagland lives, coyotes have replaced wolves while bobcats have taken the place of Canada lynx.

From The Wall Street Journal

I live in the foothills where bear, bobcat and mountain lion sightings break up the tedium of coyote and raccoon encounters.

From Los Angeles Times

Predators such as bobcats may no longer be able to hunt for rodents and birds — tick hosts — in pocket parks or suburban landscapes.

From Los Angeles Times

When it’s completed, the crossing will help animals such as mountain lions, deer and bobcats pass safely over the freeway.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• kitten
• kitty