Where Does the Term "Cougar" Come From?

Urbandictionary.com defines a cougar as a female who is in her 30's and older and is in her sexual prime who prefers to hunt than be hunted. This lady is described to frequent clubs in her search for a man, whom she prefers to be much younger and willing to have fun, in any way.

A cougar is further depicted to come in different sizes and forms: from the overly surgically enhanced ladies, to a sad and rather chunky woman, to a real hot, gorgeous mama.

Many might wonder why the word cougar has been introduced to label these ladies. If it is referring to the perceived aggressive behavior of these ladies in finding their prey, then why did they not use the terms tiger or lion? The lioness is often glorified for its hunting prowess. The lioness is an excellent hunter and is able to execute her skills with clockwork precision.

Wikipedia does not describe the female cougars (the animal) with features that mean to depict an extra-aggressive tendency towards their prey. They are actually defined as the only parent involved in parenting the kittens. They mother their little ones well and are fiercely protective. Although polygamy is possible, the female cougar can sometimes be monogamous. The male cougar is directly pictured as polygamous and is able to breed a large number of females. He even usually attempts to maintain exclusive breeding rights with females within the area.

Some blogs say that the use of the word cougar to describe women has a negative connotation. It comes across as unflattering because it suggests that these ladies are unhappy and are quick to pounce on any young male specie that comes their way.

There are some, however, who think otherwise. Actually MSNBC.com did an article on this, and the female writer tried to bring others to a different perspective. She attempted to change the impression being given to this now famous term.

The article said that it should actually empower women and not judge them. Its definition of cougar is different. A cougar is a woman who is proud of her choice of status and has maintained her looks and self-worth. She is confident of her body, even if it changes through the years.