Skip to content

Dictionary-enhanced plural guide

What is the Plural of “Lion”?

Learn the singular and plural noun forms, the rule behind the plural, and examples that show the form in context.

Singularlion→Plurallions
Rule: regularIPA: /ˈlaɪən/

Singular and Plural Form of Lion

Lion is the singular noun form. Lions is the plural form.

Dictionary meaning: A large, strong wild animal from Africa with a thick mane of hair around its head; one of the biggest wild cats.

Why is the Plural of Lion “lions”?

The Regular Plural Rule for Lion

Most English nouns form the plural by adding -s. Example: lion → lions

Plural pattern: regular.

How to Remember the Plural of Lion

Just add -s to “lion” to make “lions”. Most English nouns follow this pattern.

A common slip-up: Some learners pronounce both syllables with equal stress; stress should be strong on first syllable LI-on..

Singular vs Plural Examples with Lion

See lion and lions used in real sentences side by side.

  • We saw a lion resting under a tree on the safari. A1
  • The lion is sometimes called the king of the animals. A2
  • A male lion has a distinctive golden mane around his head. A2

Common Plural Mistakes with Lion

Wrong: The lions is sleeping in the shade.

Correct: The lions are sleeping in the shade.

Plural subject 'lions' requires plural verb 'are', not singular 'is'.

Wrong: A lion have a very thick mane around his head.

Correct: A lion has a very thick mane around its head.

Singular subject 'lion' needs singular verb 'has'. Use 'its' for the possessive, not 'his' (the lion may be female).

How to Pronounce Lion and Lions

Two syllables: LI-on. Stress on first syllable. The 'oi' sounds like the 'oi' in 'coin', not like the letter 'i'.

Other Words With the Same Plural Pattern as Lion

These nouns follow the same regular rule. Click any word to see its plural page.

Origin and Etymology of Lion

From Old French 'lion', from Latin 'leo', ultimately from Semitic languages. The majestic animal symbolized power and nobility.

Cultural note: Symbol of courage and nobility in many cultures. Featured in national emblems (British coat of arms), stories (The Lion King), and heraldry worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Plural of Lion

What is the plural of “lion”?

The plural of “lion” is “lions”.

Is “lions” regular or irregular?

This page classifies it as regular based on the available plural data.

Explore “Lion” in Other Tools