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

The plan was lauded by conservationists for striking a balance between habitat protections for pronghorn antelope, sage grouse, elk, and mule deer while still allowing significant fossil-fuel and renewable-energy developments. —Andrew McKean, Outdoor Life, 4 Sep. 2025

An important part of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, elk account for approximately 85% of winter wolf kills and are an important food source for bears, mountain lions and at least 12 scavenger species, including bald eagles and coyotes, NPS says. —Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2025

Several noted that his instinctive tug had likely prevented the pair from colliding with the elk. —Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Sep. 2025

Following the reintroduction of wolves in 1995, research suggests that elk populations have declined to a more sustainable level, thereby improving the overall health of the ecosystem. —Madison Dapcevich, Outside, 29 Aug. 2025

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