Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large black-and-white herbivorous mammal: This term refers specifically to the giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca), a bear native to bamboo forests in central China and Tibet. It is characterized by its distinctive black and white fur pattern.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The coon bear is an endangered species primarily found in China's mountainous regions.
  • Conservation efforts are crucial for protecting the habitat of the coon bear.

Advanced Usage

• The term "coon bear" is an older, less common name for the giant panda. In modern scientific and general contexts, "giant panda" or simply "panda" is the standard and preferred term.

Variants and Related Words

• Giant panda (n): The modern, standard common name for the same animal.
• Panda bear (n): A common informal name.
• Ailuropoda melanoleuca (n): The scientific binomial name.

Synonyms

• Giant panda: The primary synonym.
• Panda: A common shortened form.

Notes on Usage

• The term "coon bear" is considered archaic and is rarely used in contemporary English. Its use may cause confusion, as "coon" is also an offensive racial slur and a colloquial shortening for "raccoon." Therefore, it is strongly recommended to use "giant panda" or "panda" instead.

Noun

1. large black-and-white herbivorous mammal of bamboo forests of China and Tibet; in some classifications considered a member of the bear family or of a separate family Ailuropodidae