Jack·al n.
 1. Zool. Any one of several species of carnivorous animals inhabiting Africa and Asia, related to the dog and wolf. They are cowardly, nocturnal, and gregarious. They feed largely on carrion, and are noted for their piercing and dismal howling.
 Note: ☞ The common species of Southern Asia (Canis aureus) is yellowish gray, varied with brown on the shoulders, haunches, and legs.  The common African species (Canis anthus) is darker in color.
 2. One who does mean work for another's advantage, as jackals were once thought to kill game which lions appropriated. [Colloq.]
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 Canis aureus
      n : Old World nocturnal canine mammal closely related to the
          dog; smaller than a wolf; sometimes hunts in a pack but
          usually singly or as a member of a pair [syn: jackal]