Loped Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🏃♂️
loped
[loʊpt ]
Definition
past tense
Loped refers to the past tense of the verb lope, which means to run with a long, bounding stride. This word is often used to describe a particular style of running that is smooth and flowing. When someone is described as loping, it suggests a relaxed, yet purposeful movement, often found in animals like horses or in confident human athletes. It’s a characteristic movement that can convey grace and ease when in motion.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She loped down the trail with ease.
- The dog loped happily beside its owner.
- He loped across the field, enjoying the fresh air.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, characters often lope to express a carefree or adventurous spirit, reflecting their emotional state.
- Classic novels often describe heroes loping through nature, linking the act to freedom and exploration.
Animals
- Many wild animals, like deer and wolves, have a natural loping gait, which helps them cover ground efficiently while hunting or escaping predators.
- Loping is often seen as an energy-saving way for animals to travel long distances without getting tired too quickly.
Sports
- In track and field, athletes sometimes adopt a loping stride to maintain speed over longer distances while conserving energy.
- Loping can refer to specific styles of running seen in endurance sports, emphasizing sustained and rhythmic movement.
Origin of 'loped'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'lope' comes from the early 19th-century, and may be related to 'leap', suggesting a strong, long movement.
- Originally used to describe the way animals run, particularly four-legged ones, emphasizing a smooth motion.
The word 'lope' originated in the early 19th century, derived from the American English dialect, which likely borrowed from the earlier term 'loop', meaning a long, leisurely run. The word captures the essence of a sort of relaxed yet energetic run, often associated with a playful or carefree spirit. Originally, it described the bounding or galloping motion of animals, especially horses, and over time evolved to include human movement as well. Its etymology points to a blending of movement imagery and the joyful motions observed in nature. Loping has since been used to describe the smooth and effortless running style that has been admired in both humans and animals.