mule deer

noun

: a long-eared deer (Odocoileus hemionus) of western North America that is larger and more heavily built than the white-tailed deer

Illustration of mule deer

Examples of mule deer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game is investigating three incidents of poaching involving mule deer bucks near Boise that have happened in recent months, according to a news release from the agency. —Nicole Blanchard, Idaho Statesman, 17 Feb. 2026

The land, which is home to herds of pronghorn antelope, mountain lions, wolves, mule deer and groves of aspen trees, was originally planned for geothermal development when Santa Clara city leaders bought it nearly 50 years ago. —Paul Rogers, Mercury News, 11 Feb. 2026

Whitwam explains that Catalina mule deer hunting was traditionally reserved for island residents and their guests, or hunters who were willing to book with a local guide. —Kris Millgate, Outdoor Life, 6 Feb. 2026

Located in Jackson Hole, this serene landscape is home to glistening lakes, jagged terrain, and beautiful moose, mule deer, bison, and elk. —Giovanna Caravetta, Travel + Leisure, 4 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1805, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for mule deer

• auctioneer
• bandelier
• belvedere
• bombardier
• brigadier
• buccaneer
• cavalier
• chandelier
• chanticleer
• chevalier
• commandeer
• disappear

Kids Definition

mule deer

noun

: a long-eared deer of western North America that is larger and more heavily built than the white-tailed deer