Definition

Noun: * A large, black, East African antelope (Hippotragus niger) characterized by its long, sharp horns that curve backward. It is commonly known as the sable antelope.

Usage

• The term is used as a singular, countable noun to refer to the animal species or an individual of that species. It is a formal, zoological name.
• Example: "The Hippotragus niger is renowned for its impressive horns and striking coat."

Examples

• "Researchers are studying the migration patterns of Hippotragus niger in the savanna."
• "A magnificent Hippotragus niger stood alert at the edge of the clearing."

Advanced Usage

• In scientific and conservation contexts, the binomial name is used to specify the species without ambiguity, distinguishing it from other antelope species like the roan antelope ().

Variants and Related Words

• Sable antelope: The common English name for .
• Hippotragus: The genus name, which includes both the sable and roan antelopes.

Synonyms

• Sable antelope
• Black antelope (context-specific, though this can refer to other species)

Different Meanings

• This term has only one specific meaning in modern English: it refers exclusively to the sable antelope species. It is not used idiomatically or in other contexts.

Noun

1. large black East African antelope with sharp backward-curving horns