Coyotes

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. A type of wild canine native to North America, known for its adaptability and often associated with hunting in packs | These animals are similar to domestic dogs and are recognized for their distinctive howl and keen sense of smell | Found in various habitats, these creatures are opportunistic feeders, preying on small mammals and scavenging for food
  2. A wild canine from North America characterized by its ability to thrive in diverse environments, often recognized for its vocalizations, social behavior, and varied diet of small mammals and carrion
  3. This species of wild dog is known for its survival skills across multiple habitats and typically hunts both alone and in groups while also scavenging for food

Etymology: The word "coyote" entered English in the early 19th century, borrowed from Spanish. The Spanish term itself comes from the Nahuatl language of the Aztecs, where "coyōtl" referred to the animal we now know as the coyote—a wild canid native to North and Central America. This borrowing occurred as English speakers encountered the animal in the American Southwest and Mexico during westward expansion and exploration. Coyotes have long been significant in the folklore and mythology of various Indigenous peoples of the Americas. In many traditions, the coyote is a trickster figure, embodying both cunning and folly. This cultural backdrop adds a layer of richness to the word in English, where it often carries connotations beyond the literal animal, sometimes used metaphorically to suggest slyness or craftiness. The plural form "coyotes" follows regular English conventions, simply adding an "s" to the borrowed singular noun. Although the animal itself was known to Indigenous cultures for millennia, the English term reflects a relatively recent adoption tied to geographic and cultural encounters in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Nahuatl root "coyōtl" also connects to other words in the region's languages, and the animal's name highlights how English has absorbed terms from diverse linguistic sources as it expanded across the continent.

Synonyms: wolves, jackals