bobcat

1 of 2

noun

bob·​cat ˈbäb-ˌkat How to pronounce bobcat (audio)
: a common North American lynx (Lynx rufus) reddish in base color with dark markings

Illustration of bobcat

Illustration of bobcat

Bobcat

2 of 2

trademark

used for a small 4-wheeled or tracklaying work vehicle (as for excavating or for lifting and moving loads)

Examples of bobcat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Noun
The community is pocked by large, unruly trees and overgrown shrubbery where residents see coyotes, bobcats and once even a panther. Natalia Jaramillo, Orlando Sentinel, 2 Mar. 2025 Upgraded and larger viewing areas and habitats for the bears and bobcats. Karri Peifer, Axios, 28 Feb. 2025 Jiggs, the aggressor with the one-track mind, had his nose parted by the claw of a bobcat and almost died from a porcupine disaster which left his jaws and throat studded with broken and deeply imbedded quills. Frank C. Hibben, Outdoor Life, 27 Feb. 2025 Soon enough another, bigger bobcat came walking through the backyard, which shocked the owner even more. Justin Gest, Newsweek, 10 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bobcat

Word History

Etymology

Noun

bob entry 4; from the stubby tail

First Known Use

Noun

1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bobcat was in 1859

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Cite this Entry

“Bobcat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bobcat. Accessed 12 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

bobcat

noun
bob·​cat ˈbäb-ˌkat How to pronounce bobcat (audio)
: a common usually rusty-colored North American lynx with dark spots

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