ENGLISH
REFERENCE

king of beasts

idiom
Meaning

The lion.


Origin

disputed origin

From Middle English king of bestes.

Examples
SIMPLE

The lion is known as the king of beasts.

CONTEXTUAL

During our safari, the guide pointed out the lion, often called the king of beasts, resting in the tall grass.

COMPLEX

In many ancient fables, the lion is portrayed as the noble king of beasts, ruling over the wild with strength and authority.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    drama king

    An overly or exaggeratedly dramatic person, especially a man or a boy.

  2. 02

    fit for a king

    Lavish; luxurious.

  3. 03

    king of all one surveys

    Possessing governing authority over a range of territory; having decisive control or oversight over all major matters within one's ambit of influence; having a satisfying position of respected leadership or comfortable prestige.

  4. 04

    king of birds

    The eagle.

  5. 05

    king of the castle

    A person who assumes a position of greater importance, authority, or prominence than others.

  6. 06

    king of the hill

    A person who is meanwhile in leading position in an ongoing competition.

  7. 07

    King of the Jungle

    The lion; Panthera leo.

  8. 08

    queen of beasts

    The lioness.

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