This is the 9207th most frequent Japanese word.
獣
"獣" means "beast" or "animal."
獣 is used to refer to wild animals or beasts inhabiting the forest in general.
森には様々な獣が住んでいます。
Various beasts live in the forest.
獣 specifically refers to a threatening or dangerous animal in this context.
その獣は村に危害を与えかねません。
That beast might harm the village.
獣 is used to describe mythical or fantastical creatures featured in stories.