Definition

1. Noun:
   • A large South African antelope: A type of ungulate mammal, specifically an antelope, native to Africa, known for its speed and distinctive coat coloration.
   • A lightweight hat worn in tropical countries: A type of headgear, often made of pith or lightweight material, designed to protect the wearer from the sun.

Examples

• Noun (Antelope):
  • We saw a herd of topi grazing on the savanna.
  • The topi is considered one of the fastest antelopes.
• Noun (Hat):
  • The explorer wore a topi to shield himself from the intense sun.
  • A traditional topi is often made from the pith of the sola plant.

Advanced Usage

• The word "topi" for the hat is sometimes spelled topee, especially in historical contexts.
  • The colonial officer's uniform included a white topee.

Variants and Related Words

• Topee: An alternative spelling for the sun hat.
• Damaliscus lunatus: The scientific name for the topi antelope.
• Pith helmet: A synonym for the sun-protecting hat, describing its common material.

Synonyms

• For the antelope: Sassaby (another common name for the same species).
• For the hat: Sun helmet, pith hat, sola topee.

Related Phrases

• While "topi" itself is not typically part of phrasal verbs, it can appear in descriptive phrases:
  • To wear a topi: To have the sun hat on.

    • It is advisable to wear a topi in such climates.

Related Idioms

• There are no common idioms that specifically feature the word "topi."

Noun

1. a large South African antelope; considered the swiftest hoofed mammal
2. a lightweight hat worn in tropical countries for protection from the sun