Ride: meaning, definitions and examples

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ride

 

[raɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

on horseback

Sit on and control the movement of (an animal, especially a horse).

Synonyms

control, mount, saddle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ride

When you're talking about traveling on something like a bike, horse, or vehicle.

  • I love to ride my bike in the park
  • / We went for a ride in the countryside
mount

When referring to getting onto something, typically a horse or bike. It can also mean setting up or installing something.

  • He mounted his horse and rode away
  • / We mounted the TV on the wall
saddle

When you need to refer specifically to placing a saddle on a horse or preparing it for riding. It can also mean burdening someone with something.

  • She saddled her horse before the big race
  • / He was saddled with huge responsibilities
control

When discussing the act of steering or managing a vehicle or situation.

  • You need to learn how to control the car during a skid
  • / She took control of the meeting

Examples of usage

  • He rode his horse through the fields.
  • She rode the pony around the ring.
Context #2 | Noun

in a vehicle

A journey made on a horse, bicycle, or motorcycle, or in a vehicle.

Synonyms

drive, journey, trip.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
ride

Same as the first 'ride', used in similar contexts

  • She loves taking rides on her new motorcycle.
  • They went for a ride around the lake.
journey

Refers to the act of traveling from one place to another, especially when it involves a long distance or a significant experience.

  • Their journey across the desert lasted several days.
  • The book chronicles his journey to self-discovery.
trip

Usually describes a journey to a place and back, often for a short duration or recreational purpose.

  • We went on a weekend trip to the mountains.
  • The business trip took him to three different cities.
drive

Used when someone is operating and controlling a motor vehicle like a car, bus, or truck.

  • Can you drive me to the airport?
  • He learned how to drive when he was 16.

Examples of usage

  • I went for a ride on my bike.
  • We took a ride in the car.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from Old English 'rīdan', which means to travel on horseback.
  • Related words in other languages include 'reiten' in German and 'montar' in Spanish, both meaning to ride.
  • The meaning has expanded over time to include different modes of transport beyond just horses.

Pop Culture

  • In music, 'ride' is often used to describe enjoying life or taking chances, like in the song 'Ride' by Twenty One Pilots.
  • Theme parks feature giant rides that appeal to thrill-seekers, showcasing human creativity in attractions.
  • Famous movies often involve epic rides, like the flying scenes in 'Harry Potter' or adventurous car chases in action films.

Science

  • The physics of riding can involve concepts like gravity and centripetal force, especially on roller coasters.
  • Animal riding, like on horses, studies biomechanics to ensure proper posture and balance for both rider and animal.
  • In cycling, proper riding techniques can enhance efficiency and reduce injuries, linking movement and health.

History

  • Throughout history, riding horses was essential for travel and warfare, transforming societies and economies.
  • In ancient cultures, riding was part of training for warriors, shaping tactics and community structures.
  • The invention of the bicycle in the 19th century revolutionized personal transport, influencing urban developments.

Literature

  • Riding often symbolizes freedom and adventure in literature, with characters embarking on journeys of self-discovery.
  • Classic stories like 'Black Beauty' highlight the bond between riders and their steeds, reflecting themes of friendship and care.
  • In children's books, rides can represent overcoming fears, like in 'The Magic Tree House' series where characters ride through time.

Translations

Translations of the word "ride" in other languages:

🇵🇹 passeio

🇮🇳 सवारी

🇩🇪 Fahrt

🇮🇩 naik

🇺🇦 їзда

🇵🇱 jazda

🇯🇵 乗る

🇫🇷 balade

🇪🇸 paseo

🇹🇷 sürmek

🇰🇷 타다

🇸🇦 ركوب

🇨🇿 jízda

🇸🇰 jazda

🇨🇳 

🇸🇮 vožnja

🇮🇸 ferð

🇰🇿 саяхат

🇬🇪 გასეირნება

🇦🇿 sürmək

🇲🇽 paseo

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,633, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.