Antelopes Meaning and Definition
Antelopes
Pronunciation
/ˈæntələpiːz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A genus of mammals in the deer family, found in various regions of Africa and Asia, characterized by their distinctive horns and coat patterns.
Examples
- The safari tour guide spotted a herd of antelopes grazing in the savannah.
- The ornithologist studied the behavior of the antelopes in their natural habitat.
Synonyms
- Deer
- Pronghorn
Antonyms
- Domesticated
- Tame
Additional Information
Antelopes are known for their impressive jumping abilities and can reach distances of up to 25 feet in a single leap. They are social animals that live in herds, led by a dominant female. Antelopes have a complex communication system that involves a variety of sounds, visual displays, and scent marking.
Etymology
The word “antelope” comes from the Arabic word “anṭalīp”, which means “unique, uncommon”. It was later adopted into Middle English from Old French, “antilope”.
Usage Notes
The plural form of the word is “antelopes”, although the singular form “antelope” is sometimes used.
Cultural References
Antelopes have appeared in various forms of art, literature, and media, including African folklore, wildlife documentaries, and video games.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
“Antelope’s leap” is a common phrase used to describe a sudden, long jump or a dramatic increase in progress.
Related Words or Phrases
- Mammal
- Wildlife
- Safari
Collocations
- Antelopes are found in African savannahs
- Antelopes are known for their impressive jumping ability
Frequency of Use
The word “antelopes” is relatively rare in everyday language, but it is often used in scientific, educational, and conservation contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Antilopes
- Antelip