| gnu | <zoology> One of two species of large South African antelopes of the genus Catoblephas, having a mane and bushy tail, and curved horns in both sexes. Alternative forms: gnoo. The common gnu or wildebeest (Catoblephas gnu) is plain brown; the brindled gnu or blue wildebeest (C. Gorgon) is larger, with transverse stripes of black on the neck and shoulders. Origin: Hottentot gnu, or nju: cf. F. Gnou. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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