caracal

[ kar-uh-kal ]

noun

1. a slender, catlike mammal, Lynx caracal, with a reddish-brown coat and long tufted ears, inhabiting northern Africa and India.
2. the fur of this animal.

caracal

/ ˈkærəˌkæl /

noun

1. Also calleddesert lynx a lynxlike feline mammal, Lynx caracal, inhabiting deserts of N Africa and S Asia, having long legs, a smooth coat of reddish fur, and black-tufted ears
2. the fur of this animal

Word History and Origins

Origin of caracal¹

1750–60; < French, apparently Buffon's adaption of Turkish karakulak lynx ( kara black + kulak ear)

Word History and Origins

Origin of caracal¹

C18: from French, from Turkish kara kūlāk, literally: black ear

Example Sentences

The lynx inhabits cold and at most temperate climates, while the caracal is to be found only in the warmest countries.

From Project Gutenberg

From the remains left by this noble animal, the caracal not unoften enjoys a comfortable repast.

From Project Gutenberg

This odd-looking creature appears somewhat like a stoutly built caracal.

From Project Gutenberg

The name caracal signifies black-eared, and has been given to the animal because its ears are jet-black in color.

From Project Gutenberg

In South Africa, where the caracal abounds, its hide is made by the Zulus into skin-cloaks, known as karosses.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• bobcat
• wildcat