# gazelle

/ɡəˈzɛɫ/ (US) · /ɡəzˈɛl/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gazelle
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a small, fast animal with long legs and a slender body that lives in Africa. It is famous for its ability to run very quickly to escape predators.

For teachers: a small, slender antelope native to Africa, characterized by its speed and grace. Often used metaphorically to describe a person who is very attractive or elegant.

## Examples

- The gazelle ran across the open field to escape the lion.
- During the safari, we watched a herd of gazelles leap over the tall grass as they moved toward the waterhole.
- The gazelle's survival depends on its incredible acceleration, which allows it to outpace even the most persistent of its natural predators on the African plains.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.