Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large, heavily built goat-antelope: The term "gnu goat" refers to a specific type of ungulate, a large and stocky animal that is a member of the goat-antelope subfamily, native to the eastern Himalayan region.

Usage Notes

• "Gnu goat" is a compound noun used as a common name for a specific animal species. It is primarily a zoological term.
• It is important to note that this animal is not a true goat, nor is it related to the gnu (wildebeest). The name is descriptive of its appearance, which combines goat-like and antelope-like characteristics.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The expedition spotted a herd of gnu goats on the high mountain slopes.
  • The gnu goat is known for its thick coat and sturdy build, adaptations to its cold habitat.

Advanced Usage

• The term is used almost exclusively in biological and zoological contexts to describe the species , commonly known as the takin. "Gnu goat" is one of its vernacular names.
  • The so-called gnu goat, or takin, is the national animal of Bhutan.

Variants and Related Words

• Takin (n): The more common and scientific name for the animal referred to as the gnu goat.
  • The takin is a rare and protected species.
• Goat-antelope (n): The subfamily (Caprinae) to which this animal belongs, which includes goats, sheep, muskoxen, and similar species.
  • The chamois is another well-known goat-antelope.

Synonyms

• Takin: The primary synonym and more precise term.
• Budorcas taxicolor: The scientific binomial name.

Notes on Meaning

• The "gnu" part of the name is misleading, as it references the African wildebeest, which is unrelated. The name likely arose due to a perceived similarity in the shape of the head or horns.
• The term specifically denotes the large, bovine-like goat-antelope found in the Eastern Himalayas, not any other hybrid or fictional creature.

Noun

1. large heavily built goat antelope of eastern Himalayan area