Duiker - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A duiker is a small to medium-sized antelope found in sub-Saharan Africa. Known for their shy and elusive nature, they often dart into bushes when startled, which is why their name means diver in Afrikaans.
Definition:
A small African antelope with a stocky body and short legs, often found in forests or bushland.
Synonyms:
antelope, buck, deer
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
predator, hunter
Common Collocations:
duiker hunting, common duiker, blue duiker, forest duiker
Derivatives:
duikers, duikerbok
Usage Tips:
Use "duiker" to refer to the animal; avoid confusion with "diver" by emphasizing the pronunciation (/ˈdaɪkər/).
Common Phrases:
swift as a duiker, duiker in the bush
Etymology:
From Afrikaans "duiker," meaning "diver," referring to the animal's habit of diving into cover when threatened.
Examples:
- 1. The duiker darted into the bushes when it sensed danger.
- 2. We spotted a blue duiker during our safari in South Africa.
- 3. The duiker’s small size helps it navigate dense forests easily.
- 4. Hunters admire the duiker for its speed and agility.