What is the Old English word for elk?

The survival of the word "elk" into Middle English attests to the enduring cultural impact of this now-extinct deer species.

Throughout history, the elk has been a source of fascination and admiration for many cultures, its image often depicted in art and literature.

The etymology of the word "elk" can be traced back to Old English, where it was known as "eolh". This term originally signified a specific species of deer, commonly referred to as A. alces.

In modern times, while the elk may no longer roam freely in Britain, its legacy lives on through the word that bears its name.

Despite the fact that the eolh, or elk as it was later known, became extinct in the British Isles prior to the year 1000 AD, the English language retained a memory of this magnificent creature.