lion

 
Pronunciation: /ˈlʌɪən/

noun

  • 1a 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.
    • 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.
  • (usually 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

British 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 leōn, leont-