reindeer

noun

rein·​deer ˈrān-ˌdir How to pronounce reindeer (audio)
: caribou
used especially for one of the Old World

Examples of reindeer in a Sentence

a large herd of reindeer
Recent Examples on the Web The event will feature A Journey to the North Pole, a walk-through experience featuring a snowy winter wonderland, elves’ workshop, Mrs. Claus’ old-fashioned kitchen, reindeer stables and Santa Claus, who will provide gifts to children ages 12 and under. Charles Infosino, The Enquirer, 13 July 2024 In northern realms, caribou and reindeer, which are the same species, Rangifer taranadus, both occur in wild forms. Discover Magazine, 5 July 2024 Throughout our Arctic expedition, the group was able to watch Arctic foxes, reindeer, seals, walruses, puffins, and even a pair of humpback whales, but not the emblematic polar bear. Josh Rivera, USA TODAY, 30 June 2024 Animatronic reindeer and inflated waving Santas, holiday anthems blaring over the growling generators. Lizz Schumer, Peoplemag, 29 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for reindeer 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'reindeer.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English reindere, from Old Norse hreinn reindeer + Middle English deer animal, deer

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of reindeer was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near reindeer

Cite this Entry

“Reindeer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reindeer. Accessed 26 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

reindeer

noun
rein·​deer ˈrān-ˌdi(ə)r How to pronounce reindeer (audio)
plural reindeer also reindeers
: caribou
used especially for one of the Old World

More from Merriam-Webster on reindeer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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