springbok

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   a swift southern African antelope, Antidorcas marsupialis, known for making high stiff-legged leaps

   The startled springbok bounded across the open plain.

2. 2
   noun

   usually capitalized: a player for South Africa's national rugby union team, or the team collectively

   The former Springbok later became a professional coach.

Simplified etymology

Springbok entered English in the late 18th century. Its name contains Afrikaans bok, “antelope,” and derives its first element from springen, “jump, leap, spring.”

Borrowed from Afrikaans springbok, from spring, 'jump,' and bok, 'antelope or buck.' The name refers to the animal's characteristic leaps. Springboc is a historical English spelling.

Topics

External links

• Google Images
• Cambridge Dictionary
• Wiktionary