Definition

1. Noun:
   • A raccoon-like mammal: "coon cat" refers to a nocturnal, omnivorous mammal native to regions of North and Central America, characterized by a long, bushy tail often with distinctive rings.
   • A specific animal species: It is a common name for the ring-tailed cat (Bassariscus astutus), which is not a true cat but a member of the raccoon family (Procyonidae).

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • We spotted a coon cat in the canyon, its ringed tail visible in the moonlight.
  • The coon cat is known for its agility and is sometimes mistaken for a small raccoon.

Advanced Usage

• In zoological context: The term is used informally; the more precise biological names are "ringtail" or "ring-tailed cat."
  • Although called a coon cat, Bassariscus astutus is more closely related to raccoons than to felines.

Variants and Related Words

• Ringtail (n): Another common name for the same animal ().
  • The ringtail is the state mammal of Arizona.
• Cacomistle (n): A name used primarily in Central America for a similar species ().
  • The cacomistle has a longer tail and is found in more tropical forests.

Synonyms

• Ring-tailed cat: The most direct synonym.
• Miner's cat: A historical name, as these animals were once kept in mines to control rodents.

Notes on Meaning

• Not a feline: It is critical to understand that "coon cat" does not refer to a domestic cat or any member of the cat family (Felidae). The "cat" in the name likely comes from its cat-like agility and facial features.
• Regional usage: The term is primarily used in the southwestern United States and Mexico.

Noun

1. raccoon-like omnivorous mammal of Mexico and the southwestern United States having a long bushy tail with black and white rings
2. omnivorous mammal of Central America and South America