lion |ln|

noun
1 a large tawny-coloured cat that lives in prides,
found in Africa and NW India. The male has a
flowing shaggy mane and takes little part in hunting,
which is done cooperatively by the females.

lion

Panthera leo, family Felidae.

the lion as an emblem (e.g. of English or Scottish
royalty) or as a charge in heraldry.
(the Lion) the zodiacal sign or constellation Leo.
a brave, strong, or fierce person.
(usu. literary lion) a notable or famous author.

2 (Lion or British Lion)a member of a touring

international rugby union team representing the
British Isles.
3 (Lion)a member of a Lions Club.
PHRASES

the lion's den a demanding, intimidating, or

unpleasant place or situation. he marched reluctantly
into the lion's den to address the charity gala.
the lion's share Brit.the largest part of something.
throw someone to the lions cause someone to
be in an extremely dangerous or unpleasant
situation.[with reference to the throwing of
Christians to the lions in Roman times.]

DERIVATIVES

lion-like adjective
ORIGIN Middle English: from Anglo-Norman
French liun, from Latin leo, leon-, from Greek
len, leont- .