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.
Or maybe a huge inflatable Santa behind the wheel of a red convertible with a reindeer in the front seat will drive onto your lawn. Susan Tompor, Detroit Free Press, 13 Nov. 2024 The Bear & Friends Advent calendar comes with tiny hollow reindeers and teddy bears, Lindt truffles, and a full-size hollow bear on Christmas Eve. Carina Finn, Bon Appétit, 18 Oct. 2024 Dating back thousands of years, these rock carvings depict scenes from everyday life, including hunting, fishing, and social activities, as well as animals such as reindeer, moose, and bears. David Nikel, Forbes, 16 Oct. 2024 The pack includes stockings with three different designs: Santa, a snowman, and a reindeer. Jamie Weissman, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near reindeer

Cite this Entry

“Reindeer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reindeer. Accessed 30 Nov. 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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