The cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) is an atypical member of the cat family (Felidae) that is unique for making up in speed and stealth what it lacks in climbing abilities. As such, it is placed in its own genus, Acinonyx. It is the fastest of all land animals and can reach speeds between and Although according to Cheetah, Luke Hunter and Dave Hamman, (Struik Publishers, 2003), pp. 37-38, the cheetah's fastest recorded speed was 110 km/h (68 mph). in short bursts up to , and has the ability to accelerate from 0 to in three seconds, faster than most supercars.

The word "cheetah" is derived from the Sanskrit word chitrakāyaḥ, meaning "variegated body", via the Hindi चीता cītā.