gnu
English meaning: Gnu
Definition
A large antelope of the genus Connochaetes, native to Africa, having curved horns.
Example
“A lone gnu grazed cautiously at the edge of the watering hole.”
Another example: “Vast herds of gnu migrate across the Serengeti each year.”
Usage — When, Where & How
A noun for a large African antelope (also called a wildebeest), familiar from wildlife and safari contexts. Pronounced with a silent 'g' ('noo'). Also widely known as the name of the free-software project (GNU), a separate technical proper noun.
Etymology & Origin
English — Origin & History
From Khoikhoi 'gnu' or 'ngu', imitating the animal's call; entered English in the late 18th century via Dutch settlers in southern Africa.
Synonyms
- wildebeest
- antelope
Related Words
- gdb
- debugger
- hurd
- gcc
- linux
- compiler
- maintainer
- bsd
- grub
- license
Common Collocations
- herd of gnu
- wild gnu
- migrating gnu
- blue gnu
Word Forms
gnu (n); gnu / gnus (pl)
Word Tools
Literary Heritage
“To thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man.”
/To thine own self be true/
“Be honest with yourself — and as naturally as night follows day, you will be unable to be false to others.”
“I'm nobody! Who are you? Are you nobody, too?”
/I'm nobody! Who are you?/
“I am nobody — and that quiet anonymity is more honest than the noise of public fame.”
Images
CC-licensed · free to useVideo
Language information
- Language
- English
- English
- Script
- Latin
- Family
- Indo-European
- Speakers
- 1.5B