Any species of Arctic deer in the genus Rangifer (family Cervidae), especially Old World species, some of which are domesticated.
New World species are usually called caribou . The reindeer herded by the Sami (Lapps) are used as draft and pack animals and as a source of meat and milk; their skins are used for tents, boots, and other clothing. In Siberia they are used as pack animals and as mounts.