Illustration of coyote
- coyote 1
plural coyotes or coyote
1
: a buff-gray to reddish-gray swift carnivorous mammal (Canis latrans) of North America that is closely related to but smaller than the wolf, has a narrow pointed muzzle and triangular ears, hunts singly or in small groups, and is known for its various distinctive vocalizations (such as barks, yips, and howls)
Note: The coyote is often considered a threat to livestock. Despite being hunted and trapped, the coyote has expanded its original range and is found in all states except Hawaii.
2
slang
: one who smuggles immigrants into the U.S.
Examples of coyote in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The clip ends as the coyote holds up a stick of dynamite, which, of course, explodes.
—
Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 26 July 2025
The school board has approved the coyote as mascot for Central Pike Elementary.
—Andy Humbles, The Tennessean, 26 July 2025
Facebook post had more than 6,000 reactions and comments within a day, many wondering if the coyote was cooperative.
—Mark Price
july 22, Miami Herald, 22 July 2025
Take this quiz to find out. 1 of 10
The National Park Service generally recommends staying at least 25 yards away from animals like bison, deer, moose and coyotes.
—Gabe Castro-Root, New York Times, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for coyote
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Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 26 July 2025
The school board has approved the coyote as mascot for Central Pike Elementary.
—Andy Humbles, The Tennessean, 26 July 2025
Facebook post had more than 6,000 reactions and comments within a day, many wondering if the coyote was cooperative.
—Mark Price
july 22, Miami Herald, 22 July 2025
Take this quiz to find out. 1 of 10
The National Park Service generally recommends staying at least 25 yards away from animals like bison, deer, moose and coyotes.
—Gabe Castro-Root, New York Times, 22 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for coyote
Cite this Entry
“Coyote.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/coyote. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.
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