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wolf

1 of 2noun
/wʊlf/
Forms:wolves
1

a big and wild animal from the same family as dogs that hunts for food in groups

B1Learn more on Wikipedia

The wolf is a highly adaptable and social carnivorous mammal, known for its sleek appearance, keen senses, and complex social structure. Wolves are members of the Canidae family and are typically characterized by their bushy tails, sharp ears, and piercing eyes. They have a lean body with a double coat of fur that can vary in color from gray to black, white, or brown, depending on the species and location. Wolves are highly skilled predators, with exceptional speed, agility, and endurance, making them formidable hunters. They are known for their strong pack bonds and cooperative hunting strategies, often working together to bring down large prey. Wolves have a sophisticated communication system that includes vocalizations, body postures, and scent marking. They are also known for their intelligence and adaptability, allowing them to thrive in diverse habitats across the Northern Hemisphere. Wolves have a rich cultural significance, often portrayed as symbols of wilderness, loyalty, and cunning, and they play a vital role in maintaining ecosystem balance as top predators.

  • The gray wolf, known for its distinctive howls, is a symbol of the wild.
  • Legends often depict the cunning and mysterious nature of the mythical werewolf, part human, part wolf.
  • The lone wolf prowled through the dense forest, hunting for prey.
  • The red wolf, with its rusty coat, is a symbol of conservation efforts in the Southeast.
  • Timber wolves, or gray wolves, are found in North America, Eurasia, and the Middle East.
2

a man who aggressively or persistently pursues sexual attention from women

  • He was called a wolf for constantly flirting with the waitresses.
  • The movie portrayed him as a wolf, chasing every attractive woman.
  • She avoided the wolf at the party who made unwanted advances.
  • The wolf was reprimanded for inappropriate behavior at work.
  • That actor often plays the role of a charming wolf in romantic comedies.
3

a person who is cruelly greedy, grasping, or predatory in pursuit of gain or advantage

  • The wolf exploited every loophole in the contract.
  • Investors feared the wolf who cornered the market ruthlessly.
  • He was a wolf in business, taking advantage of weaker competitors.
  • The wolf consumed the estate's resources without remorse.
  • Critics described the tycoon as a wolf in the corporate world.