elk

noun

ˈelk 

plural elk also elks

1

plural usually elk

a

: a large gregarious deer (Cervus elaphus) of North America, Europe, Asia, and northwestern Africa with the male having large antlers and many tines and that often form large herds

Note: The North American elk is usually considered to constitute a separate species (C. canadensis).

called also red deer, wapiti

b

: moose sense 1

—used for one of the Old World

c

: any of various large Asian deer

2

: soft tanned rugged leather

3

usually Elk plural Elks [Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks] : a member of a major benevolent and fraternal order

Examples of elk in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In 1912, 83 elk were transplanted into Arizona from Yellowstone National Park, and the statewide population has grown to nearly 35,000 animals, according to the Arizona Game and Fish Department. —John Leos, The Arizona Republic, 18 Nov. 2024

More lions would mean fewer elk and deer, which means fewer available tags, which translates to less money for CPW to fund fish and wildlife conservation in the state. —Dac Collins, Outdoor Life, 15 Aug. 2024

In 1997, northern Yellowstone elk numbered nearly 20,000; a decade later the area held 8335 elk and 101 wolves. —Byvirginia Morell, science.org, 23 Oct. 2024

Since the elk was euthanized, there’s been a public outcry. —Darcie Moran, Detroit Free Press, 19 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, probably from Old English eolh; akin to Old High German elaho elk, Greek elaphos deer

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing elk

• tule elk

Kids Definition

elk

noun

ˈelk 

plural elk or elks

1

: moose

—used for one of Europe or Asia

2

: a large deer of North America, Europe, Asia, and northwestern Africa that has large curved antlers with many branches and that lives in herds

called also red deer, wapiti