# impala

/ˌɪmˈpɑɫə/ (US) · /ɪmpˈɑːlɐ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/impala
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

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.

For teachers: 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.

## Examples

- The impala jumped over the tall grass to escape.
- During our safari in the Serengeti, we watched a large herd of impala grazing near the watering hole at sunset.
- 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.

## Usage notes

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

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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.