Ride Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ride

[raษชd ]

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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'ride'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from Old English 'rฤซdan', 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.

The word 'ride' originated from the Old English word 'ridan', which meant 'to sit on and control the movement of an animal'. Over time, the meaning expanded to include journeys made on various modes of transportation. The word has been used in English since the 8th century.


See also: override, overriding, rider, riders, riding.

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.