Definition

1. Noun:
   • A species of hyena native to Africa: "Crocuta crocuta" is the scientific name for the spotted hyena, a large carnivorous mammal found in sub-Saharan Africa.
   • Noted for its distinctive vocalization: This animal is famous for its unique howl, which sounds like human laughter, earning it the common name "laughing hyena."

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • The researchers observed a clan of Crocuta crocuta on the savanna. (The researchers observed a clan of spotted hyenas on the savanna.)
  • The eerie call of Crocuta crocuta echoed through the night. (The eerie call of the spotted hyena echoed through the night.)

Advanced Usage

• In binomial nomenclature: The term "Crocuta crocuta" is used in scientific and zoological contexts to precisely identify the species, distinguishing it from other hyena species like the striped hyena ().
  • The study focused on the social structure of Crocuta crocuta. (The study focused on the social structure of the spotted hyena.)

Variants and Related Words

• Spotted hyena (n): The common English name for .
  • The spotted hyena is a highly social predator.
• Laughing hyena (n): An informal name referring to the species' distinctive vocalization.
  • The sound of the laughing hyena is unmistakable.

Synonyms

• Spotted hyena: The most common synonym in general English.
• Laughing hyena: A descriptive synonym emphasizing its call.

Related Phrases

• Hyena clan: A social group of .
  • A hyena clan is typically led by a dominant female.

Noun

1. African hyena noted for its distinctive howl