ENGLISH
REFERENCE

impala

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɪmˈpɑɫə// UK //ɪmpˈɑːlɐ// im·pala

n. a medium-sized African antelope that is famous for its ability to jump very high and far. It has a reddish-brown coat and the males have long, curved horns.

n. a medium-sized African antelope, Aepyceros melampus, noted for its graceful build and leaping ability. Characterised by a lyrate horn structure in males and a distinctive black-and-white pattern on the tail and hindquarters.


SIMPLE

The impala jumped over the tall grass to escape.

CONTEXTUAL

During our safari in the Serengeti, we watched a large herd of impala grazing near the watering hole at sunset.

COMPLEX

The impala is a keystone species in many African savannas, serving as a primary food source for large predators like leopards and cheetahs while influencing vegetation through its selective grazing habits.

Origin

From Zulu impala.

Usage

The plural form can be either 'impala' or 'impalas'.

© 2026 English Reference