Canter - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A canter is a controlled, three-beat horse gait that is faster than a trot but slower than a gallop. It is smooth and often used for leisurely riding or training.
Definition:
A smooth, three-beat horse gait between a trot and a gallop.
Synonyms:
lope, jog, easy gait
Part of Speech:
noun, verb
Antonyms:
gallop, walk
Common Collocations:
horse canter, canter rhythm, canter pace
Derivatives:
cantering, cantered
Usage Tips:
Use "canter" to describe a horse's relaxed speed; avoid confusing it with "gallop" (faster) or "trot" (slower).
Common Phrases:
at a canter, win at a canter
Etymology:
From Latin *cantherius* (gelding), via Old French *canter* (to move like a horse).
Examples:
- 1. The horse began to canter around the field.
- 2. She learned to canter confidently during her riding lesson.
- 3. The rider urged the horse into a smooth canter.
- 4. They enjoyed a leisurely canter along the beach at sunset.