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Gazelle

(Science: zoology) One of several small, swift, elegantly formed species of antelope, of the genus Gazella, especially. G. Dorcas; called also algazel, corinne, korin, and kevel. The gazelles are celebrated for the luster and soft expression of their eyes.

alternative forms: gazel.

The common species of northern Africa (Gazella dorcas); the Arabian gazelle, or ariel (g. Arabica); the mohr of west Africa (g. Mohr); the indian (g. Bennetti); the ahu or persian (g. Subgutturosa); and the springbok or tsebe (g. Euchore) of south africa, are the best known.

Origin: f. Gazelle, OF. Also, gazel; cf. Sp. Gacela, pr. Gazella, It. Gazella; all fr. Ar. Ghazl a wild goat.