The Collaborative International Dictionary
Gnu \Gnu\, n. [Hottentot gnu, or nju: cf. F. gnou.] (Zo["o]l.) 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.]
Note: 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.
Usage examples of "gnoo".
As they descended to the plain, they perceived large herds of brindled gnoos, quaggas, and antelopes, covering the whole face of the country as far as the eye could reach, moving about in masses to and fro, joining each other and separating, so that the whole plain appeared alive with them.
They immediately rode at a trot in that direction, and the various herds of quaggas, gnoos, and antelopes scoured away before them.