reindeer

[ reyn-deer ]

noun

, plural rein·deer, (occasionally) rein·deers.

1. any of several large deer of the genus Rangifer, of northern and Arctic regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, both male and female of which have antlers.

reindeer

/ ˈreɪnˌdɪə /

noun

1. a large deer, Rangifer tarandus , having large branched antlers in the male and female and inhabiting the arctic regions of Greenland, Europe, and Asia. It also occurs in North America, where it is known as a caribou

Word History and Origins

Origin of reindeer¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English raynder(e), from Old Norse hreindȳri, equivalent to hreinn “reindeer” + dȳr “animal” (cognate with deer )

Word History and Origins

Origin of reindeer¹

C14: from Old Norse hreindӯri , from hreinn reindeer + dyr animal; related to Dutch rendier , German Rentier ; see deer

Example Sentences

The parade winds up with an appearance by the jolly old elf, Santa Claus, and his reindeer.

From Los Angeles Times

In One Piece, Chopper is a toddler-sized hybrid of human and reindeer.

From BBC

Who doesn’t want to see a bunch of adorable baby reindeer learning to walk?

From Los Angeles Times

Wild reindeer numbers have declined dramatically, with some subspecies listed as endangered, mostly due to habitat loss.

From Science Daily

The disease attacks the brain and nervous system, and targets members of the cervid family, such as deer, elk, reindeer and moose.

From Los Angeles Times