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.
But letting a reindeer out into a city alone on a winter night threatens its well-being, Mr. Whitehead said. Hank Sanders, New York Times, 14 Mar. 2025 Either way, keep an eye out for caribou, which look like lean reindeer. Graham Averill, Outside Online, 21 Jan. 2025 The outbreak also decimated local reindeer populations, with over 2,300 animals succumbing to the disease. Scott Travers, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025 Animal welfare is of utmost importance, and Reindeer Manor maintains good living conditions for the on-site reindeer and huskies. Nicole Trilivas, Travel + Leisure, 15 Mar. 2025 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 2 Apr. 2025.

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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