dictionary.pt

dictionary.pt

hyena

nounfemininegeneral usecommon/ˈjɛ.nɐ/hi·e·na

Definition

1

African and Asian carnivorous mammal, nocturnal, known for its howl resembling laughter and for being an opportunistic scavenger.

Usage examples

Hyenas are often portrayed as sneaky animals in cartoons.
The characteristic laugh of a hyena was heard on the savannah at night.

Synonyms

Idiomatic expressions

  • laugh like a hyena (to laugh in a loud, uncontrolled way)