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noun

wildebeest

WIHL-duh-beest

Wildebeest (noun) means a large African antelope with a heavy head and curved horns, also called a gnu, known for its huge migrating herds. Example: “Millions of wildebeest cross the Serengeti each year in search of fresh grass.”

noun
1
A large African antelope with a heavy head and curved horns, also called a gnu, known for its huge migrating herds.
"Millions of wildebeest cross the Serengeti each year in search of fresh grass."

How to use wildebeest

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA large African antelope, also known as a gnu, famous for its massive annual migration.

Common pairings
herd of wildebeest wildebeest migration

Word forms

wildebeest plural, wildebeests plural, wildebeesten plural

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Can you complete this real example?

Millions of _____ cross the Serengeti each year in search of fresh grass.

Etymology

Borrowed from Afrikaans wildebeest, literally "wild ox" or "wild beast."

Origin: Afrikaans

Frequently asked questions

What does “wildebeest” mean?

The word “wildebeest” means a large African antelope with a heavy head and curved horns, also called a gnu, known for its huge migrating herds. In plain terms, a large African antelope, also known as a gnu, famous for its massive annual migration.

How do you pronounce “wildebeest”?

“Wildebeest” is pronounced WIHL-duh-beest (/ˈwɪldəbist/ in IPA).

How do you use “wildebeest” in a sentence?

Here is “wildebeest” used in a sentence: “Millions of wildebeest cross the Serengeti each year in search of fresh grass.”

What part of speech is “wildebeest”?

“Wildebeest” is a noun.

Where does the word “wildebeest” come from?

The word “wildebeest” comes from Afrikaans. Borrowed from Afrikaans wildebeest, literally "wild ox" or "wild beast.".

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