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

Expect to see everything from elk and moose to bald eagles in one of the most stunning parks in the country. — Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Aug. 2026

In those five years, the deer and elk were involved in more than 950 collisions with vehicles on the peninsula, which resulted in two human’s deaths and more than 80 injuries. — Gennaro Tomma, Scientific American, 5 Aug. 2026

Spend your days hiking easy-to-access trails, searching for salamanders, spotting elk in nearby valleys, snapping family photos, and enjoying the peace that comes with screen-free time. — Lydia Mansel, Southern Living, 4 Aug. 2026

As for dining options, Cafe Genevieve serves an excellent breakfast and brunch, and Million Dollar Cowboy Bar draws crowds for a taste of Western-style eats like bison burgers and elk sliders. — Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 3 Aug. 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