Bison: meaning, definitions and examples

Same as the first entry; presumably listed twice inadvertently.

• See above

Commonly used to refer to the American bison, especially in North American English. Also refers to different species found in Africa and Asia. Often used in both culinary contexts and when discussing wildlife.

• Buffalo wings are a popular dish in the United States
• The buffalo is crucial to the ecosystem of the African savannah

Refers specifically to domesticated cattle, usually male, that are used for heavy work like plowing fields or pulling carts. Often used in agricultural or historical contexts.

• The farmer used an ox to plow the field
• Traditional farming methods often rely on oxen for various tasks

Refers to the same animal as 'bison' and 'American buffalo' but can be used interchangeably with 'bison' in both formal and informal contexts.

• Bison are important to the ecosystem of the prairie
• The bison population has been increasing thanks to conservation efforts

Often used in casual speech in North America to refer to the American bison, despite not being a true buffalo. It has a more informal tone.

• Look at those American buffaloes over there! The American buffalo has become a symbol of the American West