Pronunciation: (elk), [key]
—pl. elks, (esp. collectively) elk for 1, 2.
1. Also called European elk. the moose, Alces alces.
2. Also called American elk, wapiti. a large North American deer, Cervus canadensis, the male of which has large, spreading antlers.
3. a pliable leather used for sport shoes, made originally of elk hide but now of calfskin or cowhide tanned and smoked to resemble elk hide.
4. (cap.) a member of a fraternal organization (Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks) that supports or contributes to various charitable causes.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.