bearcat
Definition
Noun 1. A mammal: A carnivorous mammal (Arctictis binturong) native to Southeast Asia, characterized by a long, muscular, prehensile tail, shaggy black hair, and a face resembling that of a cat. It is also known as a binturong.
Usage
- The bearcat is not actually related to bears or cats; it is the largest member of the civet family.
- A defining feature of the bearcat is its strong, gripping tail, which it uses like a fifth limb to climb and hang from branches.
- The bearcat is noted for the distinct smell of its scent glands, which has been compared to buttered popcorn.
Examples
- "We were lucky to spot a bearcat sleeping in the canopy during our jungle trek."
- "The zookeeper explained that the bearcat's prehensile tail provides excellent balance in the trees."
- "Despite its fierce name, the bearcat is primarily a frugivore, eating mostly fruit."
Advanced Usage
- Figurative use for a person: In informal American English, "bearcat" can be used as a colorful, old-fashioned term to describe a very fierce, aggressive, or tenacious person, especially in sports contexts. This usage is now somewhat archaic.
- Example: "The old coach was a real bearcat on the sidelines, always yelling and fighting for his team."
Variants and Related Words
- Binturong: The more common scientific and alternative common name for the same animal ().
- Civet: The general family (Viverridae) to which the bearcat belongs.
Synonyms
- Binturong (direct synonym)
- Asian civet (general category, though this can refer to other species)
Notes
- The term "bearcat" is also the mascot for several American universities and sports teams, drawing on the figurative meaning of a fierce and tenacious fighter.
Noun
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arboreal civet of Asia having a long prehensile tail and shaggy black hair
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