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Trot Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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trot

[trɒt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

horse riding

To trot means for a horse to move at a pace faster than a walk but slower than a canter. It is a two-beat diagonal gait where the horse's legs move in diagonal pairs.

Synonyms

amble, jog, lope.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
trot

Used to describe a moderate pace, usually referring to horses, but can apply to humans moving briskly. Suitable when emphasizing a quicker gait than walking but not as fast as running.

  • The horse trotted around the field
  • She trotted to the store to get there quickly without running
jog

Refers to a pace faster than walking but slower than running, often used for exercise or casual fitness. Suitable for informal physical activity or commuting short distances.

  • She goes for a jog every morning
  • He jogged to the bus stop to catch the bus on time
lope

Describes a long, easy stride, often used for animals like horses or large dogs. For humans, it can imply a graceful, smooth jog or run with a relaxed rhythm.

  • The horse lopes across the prairie
  • He loped down the trail in a steady, unhurried manner
amble

Describes a slow, relaxed, and leisurely walk. Ideal for casual, unhurried movement, often enjoyed while taking in surroundings.

  • They amble through the park on Sundays
  • He ambled along the beach, enjoying the sunset

Examples of usage

  • The horse began to trot along the trail.
  • She felt the rhythmic motion of the horse's trot beneath her.
Context #2 | Noun

horse riding

The trot is a two-beat diagonal gait of a horse, where the horse moves at a pace faster than a walk but slower than a canter.

Synonyms

amble, jog, lope.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
trot

Use 'trot' when describing a quick, steady pace, often for horses but can also apply to people moving briskly.

  • The horse trotted around the field.
  • She trotted to the store to buy some milk.
jog

Use 'jog' to describe a steady run at a moderate speed, typically done for exercise.

  • She likes to jog around the lake every morning.
  • I saw him jog past my house yesterday.
lope

Use 'lope' to signify a long, bounding stride, often used for animals or a relaxed kind of running for people.

  • The deer lope gracefully through the forest.
  • He lope across the beach with ease.
amble

Use 'amble' when talking about moving at a slow, relaxed pace, often to enjoy scenery or simply take one's time.

  • They amble through the park every Sunday morning.
  • He amble down the street, enjoying the spring weather.

Examples of usage

  • The rider adjusted her posture to the horse's trot.
  • The horse's trot was smooth and steady.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Animals

  • Horses trot using a two-beat gait where the legs on one side move together followed by the legs on the opposite side.
  • Trotting is often used in horse training as it helps build strength and endurance without exerting too much pressure.
  • Some breeds, like the Standardbred, excel specifically in trotting and are known for racing in this gait.

Pop Culture

  • In children's literature, horses that trot often symbolize adventure and freedom, paving the way for imaginative journeys.
  • Movies and shows featuring equestrian sports often highlight trotting as a skillful yet heartwarming aspect of horse riding.
  • The famous cartoon character My Little Pony showcases trotting as a playful and joyful way horses express happiness.

Sports

  • In competitive equestrian events, a horse's ability to trot smoothly can be crucial for scoring high in dressage.
  • Trotting races are popular events in harness racing, where horses pull a small cart with a driver.
  • Horse trotting is an Olympic event, showcasing the beauty of this specific gait in dressage competitions.

Psychology

  • The rhythm and steadiness of a trot can be calming, similar to how walking can reduce stress in humans.
  • Observing horses trotting has been linked to fostering a sense of tranquility and connection to nature.
  • Therapeutic riding programs often incorporate trotting, as it can help participants in building confidence and coordination.

Origin of 'trot'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Middle English word 'trotteren', meaning to run or to travel at a brisk pace.
  • Its roots can be traced back to Old French 'trotter', which means to trot or to move quickly.
  • The concept of trotting has been part of equestrian vocabulary for centuries, emphasizing a specific horse gait.

The word 'trot' comes from Middle English 'trotten', which is of Germanic origin. It has been used to describe the gait of a horse since the 16th century. The term 'trot' has evolved to represent a specific pace in horse riding, distinguishing it from other gaits.

See also: betrothed.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,137, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.