Black buck Meaning and Definition
Black Buck
Pronunciation
/ˈblækˈbʌk/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A large, hoofed mammal (Antilope cervicapra) native to the Indian subcontinent and Sri Lanka, characterized by its reddish-brown coat, white face, and curved horns.
Examples
- The wildlife reserve is home to a population of endangered blackbucks.
- The hunters tracked the blackbuck through the forest, careful not to disturb its habitat.
Synonyms
- Antilope
- Cervicapra
Antonyms
- Domesticated
- Tame
Additional Information
Blackbucks are herbivores and roam freely in their natural habitats, feeding on grasses, leaves, and fruits. They are listed as an endangered species due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.
The blackbuck is an important part of Indian culture, appearing in ancient Hindu mythology and folklore.
Conservation efforts are underway to protect the blackbuck population, including habitat preservation and reintroduction programs.
Etymology
The word “blackbuck” is derived from the Urdu word “kala hiran”, meaning “black deer”.
Usage Notes
Use “blackbuck” to refer to the specific species of antelope, and avoid using the term to describe other deer or antelopes.
Cultural References
The blackbuck appears in the coat of arms of the Indian state of Punjab.
In Hindu mythology, the blackbuck is associated with the god Shiva.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
No specific idiomatic expressions or phrases are associated with the term “blackbuck”.
Related Words or Phrases
Related words and phrases include “antelope”, “deer”, and “hoofed mammal”.
Collocations
Common collocations with “blackbuck” include “conservation effort”, “habitat preservation”, and “endangered species”.
Frequency of Use
“Blackbuck” is a relatively rare term in modern language, but its frequency of use is increasing as awareness of conservation efforts and endangered species grows.
Common Misspellings
Common misspellings include “black buck”, “black bull”, and “black deer”.