English-English Dictionary

Meaning of the word jackal in English

What does jackal mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

jackal

US /ˈdʒæk.əl/
UK /ˈdʒæk.əl/
"jackal" picture

Noun

1.

a wild dog found in Africa and Asia, typically with a yellowish-brown coat, a bushy tail, and a pointed muzzle. Jackals are scavengers and hunters of small prey.

Example:
•
The jackal howled under the desert moon.
•
Jackals often scavenge for food left by larger predators.
Synonym:
canid wild dog
2.

a person who behaves in a servile or obsequious way, especially to someone in power, or who acts as a subordinate to a more powerful or unscrupulous person.

Example:
•
He was nothing more than a jackal, doing the bidding of his corrupt boss.
•
The politician was surrounded by jackals eager to gain favor.
Synonym:
sycophant minion toady lackey flunky
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