Meaning of the word wildcat in English

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

wildcat

US /ˈwaɪldˌkæt/
UK /ˈwaɪldˌkæt/
"wildcat" picture

Noun

1.

a fierce, untamed cat, especially a European wildcat (Felis silvestris) or a North American bobcat (Lynx rufus).

Example:
The European wildcat is a solitary and elusive animal.
We spotted a wildcat near the forest edge.
2.

a person with a fierce or unpredictable character.

Example:
She's a real wildcat when she gets angry.
He's a bit of a wildcat, always taking risks.
3.

a speculative venture, especially in oil drilling, with little chance of success.

Example:
Drilling for oil in that remote area was a complete wildcat.
Many investors lost money on wildcat oil wells.

Adjective

1.

operating or done in a reckless or speculative way.

Example:
The company engaged in wildcat drilling in unproven territories.
They took a wildcat approach to their investments.

Verb

1.

to engage in a wildcat strike.

Example:
The workers decided to wildcat in protest of the new policies.
The union warned against any attempts to wildcat.
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