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

While development destroyed habitat nearby, Fales said, the areas his cattle graze are increasingly shared by animals such as elk, bears and mountain lions. —Mark Olalde, ProPublica, 12 Jan. 2026

Watch Lottie interact with elk in wholesome moment Video footage recorded by Dewey shows Lottie staring towards the camera as an elk approaches and cautiously walks closer to her. —Saman Shafiq, USA Today, 10 Jan. 2026

This means the landscape provides critical migration routes for species like elk, mule deer, bears, moose, and bobcats—thus allowing for exceptional wildlife sightings in the spring and fall that rival Yellowstone National Park. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Jan. 2026

The pair had scouted for elk and hunted the base the day before, when Cooper had his one-day archery tag. —Bob McNally, Outdoor Life, 8 Jan. 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 1b

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