Jack"al` (?), n. [Pers.
shaghāl: cf. OF. jackal, F. chacal; cf.
Skr. çr.gāla.]
1. (Zoöl.) 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.
&fist; The common species of Southern Asia (Canis aureus)
is yellowish gray, varied with brown on the shoulders, haunches, and
legs. The common African species (C. 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.] Ld. Lytton.
