The word "antelope" is spelled as [æn.tə.loʊp] in IPA phonetic transcription. This word has four syllables, with the primary stress on the second syllable "te". The initial sound is a vowel, pronounced as "æ" in "cat". The second syllable contains a double consonant, pronounced as "t" followed by a schwa sound. The third and fourth syllables are pronounced as "lo" and "pe" respectively. The correct spelling of this word is important to ensure clear communication and avoid confusion.
Antelope refers to a group of fleet-footed, herbivorous mammalian species belonging to the family Bovidae, subfamily Antilopinae. Endemic to various regions across the world, especially grasslands and semi-desert areas of Africa and Asia, antelopes are known for their elegance, agility, and impressive running speeds.
Physically, antelopes exhibit slender bodies, with well-developed legs and a compact build. They typically possess light bone structures, enabling them to achieve swift running speeds, often exceeding 50 miles per hour. Their body size and weight vary significantly among species, ranging from smaller antelopes like the dik-diks to larger ones such as the elands and the gemsboks.
Characteristically, antelopes exhibit distinctive features such as a pair of straight or twisted, often highly elongated horns, which are usually present in both males and females. These horns serve for various functions, including self-defense against predators and to establish dominance during mating rituals. Antelopes typically feed on various grasses, leaves, and shrubs, employing a herbivorous diet.
Due to their adaptability to different habitats and climates, antelopes have successfully diversified into numerous species, which often exhibit distinct behavioral and physical characteristics. They have become an essential part of various ecosystems, playing vital roles in maintaining ecological balance, dispersing seeds, and providing a food source for many predators. Their presence undeniably contributes to the richness and biodiversity of the natural world.
A beautiful creature, partly like a deer and partly like a goat.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "antelope" can be traced back to Middle English, derived from the Old French word "antelop", which in turn came from Medieval Latin "ant(h)alopus". This Latin term was originally borrowed from an ancient Greek word, "ántalops" or "ántelops". However, the exact origin of the Greek word is uncertain. It is believed to be a compound of "anti", meaning "against", and "ops", meaning "eye" or "face". This interpretation likely refers to the facial markings or eye-like patches found on some antelope species.