sika

noun

si·​ka ˈsē-kə How to pronounce sika (audio)
: a deer (Cervus nippon) of eastern Asia that has a chestnut to brownish coat often spotted with white and that has established populations in other regions (such as Europe and the U.S.) as a result of introduction

Examples of sika in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The hybrids seem to be intermediate in physical appearance, tending toward the spotted coats and smaller stature of the sika deer. — Richard Pallardy, Ars Technica, 30 July 2024 Barbary sheep, mouflon sheep, blackbuck, red stag, sika and axis deer and mountain goats are among the exotic game that roam the ranch. — Melissa Manno, San Antonio Express-News, 17 Dec. 2023

Word History

Etymology

Japanese shika

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sika was in 1859

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Cite this Entry

“Sika.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sika. Accessed 20 Mar. 2025.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about sika

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