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rooibok

South African name for the impala — one of the most iconic and abundant antelope species on the African savanna.

ˈɹuəˌbɑk251 viewsLast reviewed Jun 29, 2026+ Add a definition
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#1·Apr 28, 2026

South African name for the impala — one of the most iconic and abundant antelope species on the African savanna. The word comes from Afrikaans and literally means 'red buck,' referring to the animal's warm reddish-brown coat. Impala are famous for their incredible agility and can leap over 3 metres high and 10 metres in distance. In South Africa, 'rooibok' is the everyday local name used by hunters, game rangers, and wildlife enthusiasts rather than the formal 'impala.'

A whole herd of rooibok scattered across the road as we drove through the reserve at dusk.
Origin: Afrikaans: 'rooi' (red) + 'bok' (buck/antelope). Refers to the impala's characteristic reddish-brown colouring. Editorial expansion authored on Slangora.
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#2·Apr 27, 2026

(South Africa) The impala.

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