Definition of cougar

The word "cougar" is a slang term used to describe an older woman who pursues relationships with significantly younger men. The origin of this term is debated, but its use as a derogatory phrase first surfaced in the early 1980s. The term is believed to be derived from the name of a large wild cat, known as the cougar or Puma concolor, found in North, Central, and South America. The similarities between the predator hunting much younger prey and the behavior of some older women seeking younger men may be the inspiration for the analogy. Another theory suggests that the term "cougar" originated from the word "coyote" (a smaller wild animal), which was frequently used as a derogatory term for older women who were considered to be predatory in their pursuit of younger men during the 1970s. It's suggested that the term "cougar" was coined as a sort of spin-off from "coyote," becoming more widely known and gaining currency in popular culture. In any case, the term "cougar" has come to be an object of both fascination and controversy, sparking debates about ageism, double standards, and women's sexuality in society today.