gnu Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun large African antelope having a head with horns like an ox and a long tufted tail
    wildebeest.

WordNet

Gnu noun
Etymology
Hottentot gnu, or nju: cf. F. gnou.
Definitions
  1. (Zoöl.) One of two species of large South African antelopes of the genus Catoblephas, having a mane and bushy tail, and curved horns in both sexes. Written also gnoo. ✍ The common gnu or wildebeest (Catoblephas gnu) is plain brown; the brindled gnu or blue wildebeest (C. gorgon) is larger, with transverse stripes of black on the neck and shoulders.

Webster 1913