Felino is a noun.
/fɛˈlino/
The word felino refers to members of the Felidae family, which includes both domesticated cats and wild cats such as lions, tigers, and leopards. In a broader sense, it can also describe characteristics typical of cats, such as agility or predatory behavior. In Spanish, felino is commonly used in both spoken and written contexts, particularly in discussions about animal behavior, biology, and pets.
Felino is a moderately used word in Spanish, particularly prevalent in contexts related to zoology, pet ownership, and colloquial descriptions of people exhibiting cat-like behaviors.
Felines are very agile animals and natural hunters.
En el zoológico, hay una sección dedicada a los felinos salvajes.
In the zoo, there is a section dedicated to wild felines.
Mi vecino tiene un gato que es muy felino en su comportamiento.
The term felino can also appear in idiomatic expressions, although direct idioms may be less frequent compared to more common phrases involving the word "gato" (cat), due to cultural differences in terms.
To have a feline character. (Refers to being independent and graceful, similar to a cat.)
Saltar como un felino.
To leap like a feline. (Meaning to move swiftly and gracefully.)
Mirar por encima del hombro como un felino.
To look down one’s nose like a feline. (Describes someone who behaves arrogantly or condescendingly.)
Despertar el instinto felino.
The word felino comes from the Latin word felinus, which derives from felis, meaning "cat." This reflects the zoological classification of cats and their behavior.
This comprehensive overview of felino captures its meaning, usage, related expressions, and contextual relevance within the Spanish language.