The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

canter

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Dictionary definition of canter

A three-beat gait of a horse, typically slower than a gallop but faster than a trot.
"She went for a leisurely canter on her horse in the park."

Detailed meaning of canter

It is a smooth, easy pace that is comfortable for both the horse and rider. During a canter, the horse will have a leading leg, followed by both hind legs, and then a moment of suspension before repeating the pattern with the opposite leading leg. The canter is a common gait used in horse riding, especially in sports like show jumping and dressage. It is a popular choice for riders who want to travel faster than a trot but without the exertion of a gallop. In addition to its use in equestrian sports, the canter is also used in other contexts, such as carriage rides and parades. Overall, the term canter is primarily associated with horse riding and describes a smooth, comfortable pace that falls between a trot and a gallop.

Example sentences containing canter

1. The rhythmic canter of the horses could be heard from afar.
2. He began to canter around the ring with ease.
3. She learned to canter before she learned to trot.
4. The horse broke into a canter as they approached the finish line.
5. They watched as the horses cantered gracefully around the track.
6. The experienced rider showed her how to canter properly.

History and etymology of canter

The noun 'canter' has its etymological origins in Old French. It is believed to come from the Old French word 'canter,' which referred to a gentle gallop of a horse. The Old French term, in turn, is thought to have been influenced by the Latin word 'canta,' meaning 'to sing' or 'to chant.' This connection might seem unusual, but it reflects the rhythmic and melodic nature of the canter's three-beat gait. The word 'canter' in English has retained its sense of a moderate, rhythmic gait of a horse, typically slower than a gallop but faster than a trot. The etymology of 'canter' effectively conveys its historical association with the graceful and rhythmic movement of a horse, emphasizing its role as a noun used to describe this particular equine gait.

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Further usage examples of canter

1. The horse cantered along the beach, kicking up sand as it went.
2. The canter is a smooth and comfortable gait for the rider.
3. The horse's canter was so fast, it felt like flying.
4. The jockey urged the horse to increase its canter speed.
5. She felt a surge of exhilaration as she cantered through the fields.
6. The horse's canter was graceful and effortless.
7. She enjoyed the rhythmic motion of the canter.
8. The canter is a popular gait in equestrian sports.
9. Riders often practice transitions between trot and canter.
10. The jockey guided the horse into a controlled canter.
11. A leisurely canter through the countryside is pure bliss.
12. The canter is a smooth and comfortable riding gait.
13. Her horse broke into a swift canter across the field.
14. The canter is faster than a trot but slower than a gallop.
15. The horse's canter displayed elegance and power.
16. Riders learn to maintain balance during a canter.
17. The rhythmic canter of the mare was soothing.
18. A canter provides a gentle rocking motion for riders.
19. The rider executed a flawless canter in the arena.
20. The horse's canter is a joy to behold.
21. Skilled riders can control a horse's speed during a canter.
22. The canter is a gait of grace and beauty.
23. The equestrian team practiced their canter transitions.
24. A canter through the woods is a peaceful experience.
25. The canter is a favorite among riders for its comfort.