long-legged spotted cat of Africa and southwestern Asia having nonretractile claws; the swiftest mammal; can be trained to run down game
"The conservationists are working hard to protect the cheetah population in Kenya, knowing that these swift African cats play a vital role in controlling prey numbers."
A distinctive member (Acinonyx jubatus) of the cat family, slightly smaller than the leopard, but with proportionately longer limbs and a smaller head. It is native to Africa and also credited with being the fastest terrestrial animal.
"The cheetah spotted from miles away was racing across the savanna in pursuit of an antelope herd."