Unhorsed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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unhorsed

[สŒnหˆhษ”rst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

equestrian combat

To unhorse means to throw someone off a horse, particularly in the context of a jousting match or battle. This term is often used in historical contexts related to knights and cavalry. The act of unhorsing an opponent can be seen as a demonstration of skill and prowess in mounted combat.

Synonyms

dismount, throw off, tumble.

Examples of usage

  • The knight managed to unhorse his rival with a swift strike.
  • In the tournament, many challengers attempted to unhorse each other for glory.
  • The skilled rider practiced maneuvers to unhorse his opponent during battles.

Translations

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Origin of 'unhorsed'

The word 'unhorsed' can be traced back to Middle English, originating from the combination of the prefix 'un-' meaning 'removal or reversal' and 'horse', which comes from Old English 'hors'. The term was commonly used in the context of medieval warfare and jousting, where knights would compete to unhorse each other during tournaments. This act was not only a display of physical strength but also a reflection of skill in horsemanship. Over the centuries, the word has retained its meaning, often associated with chivalric ideals and the romanticized vision of medieval combat. It showcases the importance of horses in warfare and the cultural significance they held during the medieval period, as well as the dramatic nature of knightly contests.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,819, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.