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.
Those nutrients fertilize the tundra, which attracts the reindeer, who in turn attract predators like the Arctic fox. — Sarah Kingdom, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 In the story, Ejva inherits her father’s reindeer herd following his sudden death. — Marta Balaga, Variety, 26 Aug. 2026 Along the way, Anna teamed up with Kristoff, his reindeer Sven and snowman Olaf. — Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 16 Aug. 2026 Swedish director Amanda Kernell will present Garrat du váimmu (Brace Your Heart), in which a young woman does everything in her power to keep her family’s reindeer herd alive. — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 14 Aug. 2026 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

Phrases Containing reindeer

Rhymes for reindeer

See All Rhymes for reindeer

Browse Nearby Words

reincorporate
reindeer
Reindeer Lake
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Reindeer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/reindeer. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about reindeer

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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