What is the origin of word jackal?

The word "jackal" has a fascinating history, with its roots tracing back to ancient languages. Here's a breakdown of its origins:

* Arabic: The word is ultimately derived from the Arabic word "ذئب" (pronounced "dhi'ab"), which means "wolf."

* Persian: From Arabic, it was adopted into Persian as "شغال" ("shoghāl").

* Portuguese: Portuguese explorers and traders encountered these animals in the Middle East and Africa, and borrowed the Persian term, adapting it to "chacal."

* English: The word "jackal" entered the English language through the Portuguese word "chacal" during the 16th century.

So, the word "jackal" is a journey through languages, ultimately originating from the Arabic word for "wolf," due to the animal's wolf-like appearance and scavenging habits.