noun
- Plural of hyaena; large carnivorous mammals of Africa and Asia with powerful jaws, stocky build, and often a sloping back.
Usage: Chiefly British spelling; American English typically uses 'hyenas'.; Often depicted in folklore as scavengers, though they are active hunters.
Examples
- The hyaenas gathered at dusk to hunt across the savanna.
- A pack of hyaenas can bring down large prey with their coordinated efforts.
- The documentary showed hyaenas using their powerful jaws to crack bones.
- Hyaenas are often heard laughing at night in African wildlife reserves.
- Unlike popular belief, hyaenas are skilled hunters, not just scavengers.