Lion
/ˈlaɪ.ən/noun
A large carnivorous cat known for its mane and roar.
Did you know?The English word lion comes from Latin and Greek, but the animal’s name ultimately traces back to an ancient Near Eastern word that spread with the creature’s legendary power across cultures.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Semitic
Semitic
*labiʾ-
“lion”
Ancient Greek
Greek
λέων
“lion”
Latin
Latin
leo
“lion”
Old French
Old French
lion
“lion”
Middle English
English
lion
“lion”