reindeer

noun

rein·​deer ˈrān-ˌdir 

: 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

New York City turned into a world of wonder, with a reindeer on hand to make an appearance in the once-in-a-lifetime storm. —Angela Andaloro, PEOPLE, 6 Jan. 2026

Tonight, there’s a group meeting in the reindeer barn. —Lauren Ashley Bishop, Variety, 4 Jan. 2026

Others have also flagged concerns about the relationship between resource extraction and community sustainability, particularly regarding the potential impact on indigenous Sami reindeer herding and culture. —Sam Meredith, CNBC, 29 Dec. 2025

Attending lectures is a popular pastime onboard, with experts sharing their knowledge of wildlife including polar bears, walrus, and reindeer, as well as geology, history, and workshops on photography. —Kristen E. Pope, Travel + Leisure, 29 Dec. 2025

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

Phrases Containing reindeer

• reindeer moss

Rhymes for reindeer

• headgear
• midyear
• nazir
• tuyere
• acyclovir
• asthenosphere
• ganciclovir
• magnetosphere
• atmosphere
• biosphere
• centromere
• chemosphere

Kids Definition

reindeer

noun

rein·​deer ˈrān-ˌdi(ə)r 

plural reindeer also reindeers

: caribou

—used especially for one of the Old World