English Reference
noun · adjective

lion

n. · adj.
US /ˈɫaɪən/ UK /lˈaɪən/ li·on UK spelling lion's, lion's

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    n.a large, powerful wild cat from Africa and India. The male usually has a thick mane of hair around its neck.

    n.a large, carnivorous feline of the species Panthera leo, native to Africa and parts of India, characterized by a tawny coat and, in the male, a prominent mane.

    Simple

    We saw a pride of lions resting under a tree during our safari.

    In context

    The conservation project aims to protect the natural habitat of the African lion, ensuring that the population remains stable despite increasing human encroachment.

    big cat
  2. 02 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a person who is very brave, strong, or fierce.

    n.a person characterized by exceptional courage, strength, or ferocity.

    Simple

    He was a lion in battle, never showing any fear to his enemies.

    In context

    The activist was remembered as a lion of the civil rights movement, having faced systemic opposition with unwavering fortitude.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced Literary

    n.a famous or important person who people want to see and meet.

    n.a person of great importance or celebrity who is sought after as a social attraction.

    Simple

    The young poet became a literary lion after his first book was published.

    In context

    As a lion of the local social scene, the countess was expected to attend every major gallery opening and gala in the city.

    celebrityVIPdignitary
  4. 04 B1 Intermediate Science

    n.the constellation or the star sign called Leo.

    n.the constellation Leo or the fifth sign of the zodiac.

    Simple

    The Lion is one of the easiest constellations to find in the night sky.

    In context

    In classical astronomy, the Lion is depicted as the Nemean lion, a creature from Greek mythology placed among the stars by Zeus.

    leo
  5. 05 C2 Proficiency Literary

    adj.having a light brownish-yellow color, like the fur of a lion.

    adj.denoting a light brownish-yellow or tawny color resembling the pelage of a lion.

    Simple

    She wore a lion-colored coat that matched the autumn leaves.

    In context

    The vast, lion plains of the Serengeti stretched toward the horizon, shimmering under the intense midday heat.

    tawnytanyellowish brown
This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated