Horsewhip: meaning, definitions and examples

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horsewhip

 

[ ˈhɔːrswɪp ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

animal control

A horsewhip is a long whip made of leather or other flexible material, primarily used for riding horses or as a tool for training them. Traditionally, horsewhips were utilized by equestrians to encourage or discipline horses during riding. While they served a practical purpose in horseback riding, horsewhips have also been associated with punishment in various contexts, leading to controversies over their use. In modern times, the use of horsewhips is largely viewed with disapproval due to concerns for animal welfare.

Synonyms

crop, riding whip, whip

Examples of usage

  • The rider carried a horsewhip to guide the stallion.
  • She flicked the horsewhip to signal the horse to move forward.
  • In the past, a horsewhip was often seen as a standard tool for trainers.

Translations

Translations of the word "horsewhip" in other languages:

🇵🇹 chicote de cavalo

🇮🇳 घोड़े की छड़ी

🇩🇪 Pferdepeitsche

🇮🇩 cambuk kuda

🇺🇦 конська батіг

🇵🇱 batoga konia

🇯🇵 馬鞭

🇫🇷 fouet à cheval

🇪🇸 látigo de caballo

🇹🇷 atı kamçı

🇰🇷 말채찍

🇸🇦 سوط خيلي

🇨🇿 jezdecká bič

🇸🇰 jazdecký bič

🇨🇳 马鞭

🇸🇮 konjska bič

🇮🇸 hestskeið

🇰🇿 жылқы таяғы

🇬🇪 ცხოველების ჯოხი

🇦🇿 at çəkməsi

🇲🇽 látigo de caballo

Etymology

The term 'horsewhip' dates back to the 17th century, derived from the straightforward combination of the words 'horse' and 'whip'. The composite nature of the word suggests its primary function: to whip or urge a horse forward. Historically, horsewhips were essential tools for horse riders and trainers, effectively serving as an extension of the rider's command. Throughout the centuries, horsewhips have appeared in various cultural contexts, often depicted in literature and art as symbols of authority or control over the animal. The leather used for crafting horsewhips was a practical choice, providing both durability and flexibility. With the rise of animal rights awareness in the 20th century, the perception of horsewhips shifted, leading to modern criticism regarding their use in animal training and riding. Today, while horsewhips are still used in some equestrian disciplines, their application is often scrutinized, reflecting a broader movement towards humane treatment of animals.