What does ‘a leopard cannot change its spots’ mean?
To “a leopard cannot change its spots” means to people cannot change their essential nature. From the Book of Jeremiah (13:23). Brewer's cites it among the scriptural sayings that have become English proverbs.
Origin
- From the Book of Jeremiah (13:23). Brewer's cites it among the scriptural sayings that have become English proverbs.
How to use it
- Usually said with resignation about persistent bad habits or character flaws.
- Example: He promised to reform, but a leopard cannot change its spots.
Source:
Last verified: 2026-07-18
- Definitions and origins are drawn from public-domain reference works, primarily Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable (1898), with modern usage notes clearly marked.