addax

noun

ad·​dax ˈa-ˌdaks How to pronounce addax (audio)
plural addaxes
: a large light-colored Saharan antelope (Addax nasomaculatus) that has long spiralling horns

Illustration of addax

Illustration of addax

Examples of addax in a Sentence

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.
An endangered addax calf at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge arrived in time to celebrate Mother's Day with his mom. Brenton Blanchet, Peoplemag, 12 May 2024 The addax is a rare antelope species native to the Sahara Desert in Africa. Brenton Blanchet, Peoplemag, 12 May 2024 An addax, a critically endangered animal, at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge just gave birth to her first calf just in time to celebrate Mother's Day. Julia Gomez, USA TODAY, 10 May 2024 Zoo officials say the addax was the 67th born at Zoo Miami. USA TODAY, 12 July 2019 The baby boom started July 2 with the birth of an addax. USA TODAY, 12 July 2019 Researchers spotted a mere three addaxes during a survey of their habitat in March. National Geographic, 20 May 2016 Adult addax weigh 200-300 pounds, are light colored and are identifiable by their corkscrew horns. Matt Campbell, kansascity, 28 June 2017 Muammar Qaddafi’s overthrow triggered an exodus of returnees to Niger through addax areas. Thomas Rabeil, National Geographic, 2 Mar. 2016

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Latin, borrowed from an unknown source (presumably North African)

First Known Use

1601, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of addax was in 1601

Dictionary Entries Near addax

Cite this Entry

“Addax.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/addax. Accessed 30 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on addax

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!