Pronunciation: [pˈantəɹə] (IPA) 
The word "pantera" is spelled with the phonetic transcription /pæn'tɛrə/. The first syllable, "pan-", is pronounced with a short "a" sound and a nasal "n". The second syllable, "-tera", is pronounced with the "e" sound as in "bet" and a trilled "r". This word originates from the Latin word "panthera", meaning "leopard" or "big cat". It is commonly used as a nickname or name for sports teams or music bands.
Pantera is a noun that refers to a large, powerful, and wild feline animal. Specifically, it can be used to describe various species within the Panthera genus such as the lion, tiger, jaguar, and leopard. These animals are characterized by their muscular build, sharp retractable claws, and remarkable agility. Typically, panteras possess a keen sense of sight and hearing, which aids them in hunting for prey, often including mammals of various sizes.
In addition to denoting a specific category of big cats, pantera has also been popularized as the name of a heavy metal band, Pantera. Formed in the 1980s, it gained significant recognition for its aggression and heavy sound, along with their skilled musicianship. Pantera's music is intensely powerful and is known for its driving rhythm guitar, complex drumming, and distinctive growled vocals. The band's lyrics often explore themes of anger, rebellion, and resilience, further contributing to their growing following in the metal community.
Overall, whether used in its zoological sense or as a musical reference, the term pantera symbolizes strength, fierceness, and an untamed nature.
The word pantera has its origins in Latin. It is believed to be derived from the Greek word panther, which means all beasts. In Latin, panthera referred specifically to a large wild animal or a fierce predator. Over time, panthera evolved into pantera in Late Latin and eventually entered various Romance languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian, with the same meaning of panther or large cat.
