antelope
UK[ˈæntɪləʊp]US[ˈæntɪloʊp]
n
a swift-running deerlike animal with smooth hair and upward-pointing horns, found in africa and asia.
Etymology
the word 'antelope' entered english in the late 15th century from old french 'antelop', which itself was derived from medieval latin 'antalopus'. this latin term likely originated from late greek 'anthólops', a name for a mythical, fierce creature. the ultimate source of the greek word is unknown, though it may have roots in a non-indo-european language. over time, the term's reference shifted from a legendary beast to the specific, real grazing animals we recognize today.
Analysis
the word is a simplex loanword. it does not contain separable morphemes within its modern english spelling.
Examples
a herd of antelope grazed peacefully on the savanna.
the cheetah sprinted after the fleeing antelope.
he admired the graceful leap of the springbok, a type of antelope.