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 decision to leave the elk alone prompted thousands of reactions on social media, most showing support for the elk. — Mark Price, Charlotte Observer, 30 Sep. 2026

Bears, wolves, elk, river otters and more than 200 bird species live in the preserve, including hundreds of trumpeter swans. — Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 23 Sep. 2026

Grizzly bears sustained by seasonal cutthroat turned to elk calves for precious calories, according to research by ecologist Arthur Middleton, an associate professor at UC Berkeley. — Christine Peterson, Outdoor Life, 23 Sep. 2026

The Great Irish elk stood over two metres tall and weighed up to seven hundred kilograms. — Literary Hub, 22 Sep. 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