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Definition of bobcat

bobcat

/ˈbɑːb.kæt/
bob · cat
Plural:bobcats
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bobcat Lexical Profile

bobcat Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

North American A small to medium-sized North American wildcat (Lynx rufus) characterized by a yellowish-brown to reddish coat with dark spots, tufted ears, and a distinctive short, stubby tail.

Example

"While hiking the rugged trails at dawn, the nature photographer managed to capture a rare photo of a bobcat hunting in the underbrush."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for bobcat

• Nearby Words

boat
boba
bobbin
bobcat
bobolink
bobotie
bobsled

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in American English in the early 19th century from 'bob' (referring to the animal's distinctly short, 'bobbed' tail) and 'cat'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Bobcat. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 18, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/bobcat
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