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

Getty Images/iStockphoto Troopers say deer represent over 80% of wildlife collisions, with elk coming in second. —Brian Sherrod, CBS News, 22 June 2026

While exploring the park, Wastradowski said to keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk grazing in the meadows just below the main parking area in spring and autumn. —Molly Allen, Travel + Leisure, 21 June 2026

The city of Aurora is inviting the public to name a baby elk that was born in early June at Aurora’s Phillips Park Zoo. —Aurora Beacon-News, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2026

Native Americans would use the plant species for basket-weaving and currency and feed on the grazers, such as bison, elk and deer, Sensenig added. —Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 17 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

13th 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