saiga

1 of 2

noun (1)

sai·​ga

ˈsīgə

plural -s

: a small silver coin issued under the Merovingians (6th to 8th centuries) and current in France before the introduction of the denier

saiga

2 of 2

noun (2)

"

plural -s

: a sheeplike antelope (Saiga tartarica) of Siberia and eastern Russia having the nasal region inflated and the nostrils widely separated and in the male having lyrate annulated horns and tufts of long hair beneath the eyes and ears

Word History

Etymology

Noun (1)

Medieval Latin

Noun (2)

Russian saĭga, from Fagatai saigak

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now