From: Dictionary of American Naval Fighting Ships

Any of numerous small, graceful, and swift antelopes, with lustrous eyes, found especially in South Africa, northern Africa, Iran, and India.

The second Gazelle (BAM-17), built by Savannah Machine & Foundry Co., Savannah, Ga., [launched 10 January 1943] was transferred to the United Kingdom 28 July 1943. Returned to the United States December 1946, she was struck from the Navy List 10 June 1947.