Meaning & Definition of word "Deer"
Deer
/dɪr/
noun:
- 1. 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.
- Example: While hiking in the forest, we spotted a beautiful deer grazing peacefully.
- 2. Any of various related species similar to true deer, often used in a broader sense.
- Example: The park is home to several types of deer, including elk and moose.
- 3. The flesh of a deer utilized as food.
- Example: 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.