n.1 (fem. lioness) a large flesh-eating cat, Panthera leo, of Africa and S. Asia, with a tawny coat and, in the male, a flowing shaggy mane.
2 (the Lion) the zodiacal sign or constellation Leo.
3 a brave or celebrated person.
4 the lion as a national emblem of Great Britain or as a representation in heraldry.
Phrases and idioms:
lion-heart a courageous person (esp. as a sobriquet of Richard I of England). lion-hearted brave and generous. the lion's share the largest or best part.
Derivatives:
lionhood n. lion-like adj.
Etymology: ME f. AF liun f. L leo -onis f. Gk leon leontos