elk

[ elk ]

noun

, plural elks, (especially collectively) elk

1. Also called European elk. the moose, Alces alces.
2. Also called American elk, wapiti. a large North American deer, Cervus canadensis, the male of which has large, spreading antlers.
3. a pliable leather used for sport shoes, made originally of elk hide but now of calfskin or cowhide tanned and smoked to resemble elk hide.
4. (initial capital letter) a member of a fraternal organization Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks that supports or contributes to various charitable causes.

elk

/ ɛlk /

noun

1. a large deer, Alces alces, of N Europe and Asia, having large flattened palmate antlers: also occurs in North America, where it is called a moose
2. American elk
   another name for wapiti
3. a stout pliable waterproof leather made from calfskin or horsehide

Word History and Origins

Origin of elk¹

before 900; Middle English; Old English eolc, eolh; cognate with German Elch ( Old High German el ( a ) ho ), Latin alcēs, Greek álkē

Word History and Origins

Origin of elk¹

Old English eolh; related to Old Norse elgr, Old High German elaho, Latin alcēs, Greek alkē, elaphos deer

Example Sentences

The Kern County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to approve California Resources Corp.’s plan to capture up to 48 million metric tons of carbon dioxide and inject the gas one mile underground into the Elk Hills oil field, about 25 miles west of downtown Bakersfield.

From Los Angeles Times

Peterman’s Gabby works beside Tokala Black Elk’s Takoda, the joint’s deadpan, sensible version of Woody from “Cheers.”

From Salon

In “Chími Nu’am: Native California Foodways for the Contemporary Kitchen,” Olson shares dishes like elk chili beans, nettle tortillas, blackberry-braised smoked salmon and nearly a dozen recipes featuring acorns.

From Salon

In addition to the lethal pools, bison, bears and elk have all killed park visitors, according to the pledge.

From Los Angeles Times

California officials announced a settlement with Elk Grove that requires the city to identify sites for low-income housing and pay the state’s legal fees.

From Los Angeles Times