hyène

hyena

noun ee-EN Rare

Origin: Greek huaina

Usage Note

Hyène is always feminine in French regardless of the animal's actual sex — une hyène tachetée (a spotted hyena). In figurative use, calling someone a hyena ('une vraie hyène') implies scavenging, ruthless, or cynical behaviour. The spotted hyena (hyène tachetée) is the species most referenced in French media.

Examples

"La hyène pousse un cri étrange."

Natural Translation

The hyena lets out a strange cry.

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