Word: Hyena
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A hyena is a type of animal that looks a bit like a dog. It is mainly found in Africa and southern Asia. Hyenas are known for being nocturnal, which means they are active at night. They usually eat dead animals, but they can also hunt for food.
Usage Instructions: You can use the word "hyena" when talking about animals, especially when discussing wildlife in Africa or specific animal behaviors.
Example Sentence: "The hyena laughed as it scavenged for food in the moonlight."
Advanced Usage: In literature or conversation, "hyena" can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe someone who is greedy or takes advantage of others’ misfortunes.
Word Variants: - Plural: hyenas - Related words: hyena-like (adjective), hyenic (adjective)
Different Meanings: While "hyena" primarily refers to the animal, it can also imply a person who laughs in a cruel or mocking way, similar to the hyena's laugh.
Synonyms: There aren't direct synonyms for "hyena" in the context of the animal, but you could refer to it as a scavenger or predator when discussing its behavior.
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "hyena," but you might hear phrases like "laughing like a hyena," which describes a loud, harsh laugh.
Additional Information: Hyenas are known for their strong social structures and live in groups called clans.