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Definition of oryx

oryx

/ˈɔːr.ɪks/
o · ryx

Plural:oryxes
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oryx Lexical Profile

oryx Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A large antelope native to the arid regions of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, characterized by long, straight or slightly curved horns and distinctive dark facial markings.

Example

"During our safari in Namibia, we spotted a solitary oryx standing gracefully among the red sand dunes."

• Rhymes for oryx

Word Origin & Etymology

From Latin 'oryx', derived from Ancient Greek 'ὄρυξ' (órux, meaning 'pickaxe', 'gazelle', or 'oryx'), likely referring to the animal's sharp, straight horns resembling a digging tool.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Oryx. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/oryx
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