Langimage
English

antlers

|an/tlers|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈæntlərz/

🇬🇧

/ˈæntləz/

(antler)

branched horn

Base FormPluralAdjective
antlerantlersantlered
Etymology
Etymology Information

'antler' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'antlær', where the Proto-Germanic root '*antlaz' meant 'a projecting branch or hooked object'.

Historical Evolution

'antler' changed from the Old English word 'antlær' to Middle English 'antlere' and eventually became the modern English word 'antler'.

Meaning Changes

Initially it referred generally to a projecting or hooked branch-like object; over time it came to mean specifically the branched bony horns of deer and related animals.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

the branched bony growths on the heads of deer and related animals, typically found on males; these are usually shed and regrown annually.

The stag's antlers were still covered in velvet in early spring.

Synonyms

Noun 2

a pair or set of antlers used as a mounted trophy or decoration (the deer's horns as an object).

He hung the antlers above the fireplace as a trophy.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/09/12 14:10