In the UK show Dragon's Den, the business investors on the panel are called Dragons.
The title refers directly to the intimidating panel of investors who assess entrepreneurs and their companies. Contestants must explain what their business does, how much money they want and what share of the company they are prepared to offer. The Dragons can ask detailed questions before deciding whether to make an offer.
The word is a distinctive part of the British programme’s identity. It also appears in the names of several international versions, although adaptations in other countries often use a different animal or title. The American version, for example, is called Shark Tank, so “Sharks” is a common mix-up when people discuss the two shows together.
Being called a Dragon does not mean that every investor behaves in the same way. Each panelist has a different business background, investment style and area of interest. Some focus on retail, while others pay closer attention to technology, manufacturing, food or branding.