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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cheval Blanc Courchevel’s mustard exterior suggests a traditional, Savoyard scene of reindeer rugs and bannisters carved with twee hearts and cowbells inside. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 June 2026 In Finland’s Lapland, better known as the home of Santa Claus, visitors are trading reindeer rides for a chance to strike gold. Kimberly Richardson, CNN Money, 4 June 2026 Guests are welcomed into a lavvu (traditional tent) to cook over open flames, meet reindeer, and listen to joik—ancestral singing passed down through generations. Lea Lane, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026 Feed Britain’s only free-ranging herd of reindeer. Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 4 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for reindeer

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reindeer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reindeer. Accessed 5 Jun. 2026.

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

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