kudu

noun

ku·​du ˈkü-(ˌ)dü How to pronounce kudu (audio)
variants or less commonly koodoo
plural kudu or kudus also koodoo or koodoos
: a large grayish brown African antelope (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) with large annulated spirally twisted horns
also : a related antelope (T. imberbis)

Illustration of kudu

Illustration of kudu

Examples of kudu in a Sentence

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.
Paradise flycatchers fervently follow kudu and bushbuck, feeding on mosquitoes and other flying insects that mill around the antelope. Scott Travers, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024 The journey is lead by a local Samburu guide who will show participants how to follow the tracks of African iconic animals like kudu or zebra and will set up camp under starry skies As part of the experience, guests will meet with a Samburu tribe and learn about their daily rituals. Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024 Giant East Cape kudu, nyala, waterbuck, and eland are just the start. Scott Haugen, Outdoor Life, 11 July 2024 The Aldabra tortoises, giraffes, elephants, kudu, bonobos, coatis and gorillas all headed toward their barns. Aliza Chasan, CBS News, 8 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for kudu 

Word History

Etymology

Afrikaans koedoe, from Khoikhoi kudu-b, kudu-s

First Known Use

1777, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kudu was in 1777

Dictionary Entries Near kudu

Cite this Entry

“Kudu.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kudu. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

kudu

noun
ku·​du
variants also koodoo
ˈküd-(ˌ)ü
plural kudu or kudus also koodoo or koodoos
: a large grayish brown African antelope with long twisted horns

More from Merriam-Webster on kudu

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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