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- Deer - meaning & definition
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/dɪr/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A ruminant mammal of the family Cervidae, typically characterized by long legs, antlers in males, and a gentle disposition, often found in forests and grasslands.
While hiking in the forest, we spotted a beautiful deer grazing peacefully.
Any of various related species similar to true deer, often used in a broader sense.
The park is home to several types of deer, including elk and moose.
The flesh of a deer utilized as food.
The chef prepared a delicious venison dish using the deer meat he had hunted.
Etymology
From Old English 'deor', meaning 'animal' or 'beast'; the specific use as 'deer' developed later.
Common Phrases and Expressions
deer in the headlights
A phrase used to describe someone who is frozen in fear or surprise.
like a deer caught in the headlights
Referring to someone taken by surprise and unable to react.
to bring home the bacon
In hunting contexts, it can mean successfully hunting game like deer.
Related Words
antler
A branched horn on the head of a male deer, consisting of bone covered in velvet.
fawn
A young deer, especially one that is less than a year old.
roe
A small species of deer found in Europe and Asia.