horseshoe

[hawrs-shoo]

horseshoe Definition

  • 1a U-shaped metal plate, usually made of steel, that is nailed to the underside of a horse's hoof to protect it from wear and tear
  • 2a game in which players toss horseshoes at stakes in the ground, with points awarded for encircling the stake or landing closest to it

Using horseshoe: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "horseshoe" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The blacksmith is making a horseshoe for the horse.

  • Example

    We played horseshoes in the backyard during the barbecue.

  • Example

    The horseshoe tournament will be held next weekend at the park.

horseshoe Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for horseshoe

Phrases with horseshoe

  • a horseshoe, often made of iron, that is believed to bring good luck to the person who possesses it

    Example

    She found a lucky horseshoe on the road and kept it as a charm.

  • throwing horseshoes

    the act of playing the game of horseshoes

    Example

    We spent the afternoon throwing horseshoes in the park.

  • a marine arthropod with a hard, horseshoe-shaped shell, found along the Atlantic coast of North America and in the Gulf of Mexico

    Example

    The horseshoe crab is an ancient species that has survived for millions of years.

Origins of horseshoe

from Middle English 'hors', meaning 'horse', and 'shoe'

๐Ÿ“Œ

Summary: horseshoe in Brief

A 'horseshoe' [hawrs-shoo] is a U-shaped metal plate that is nailed to the underside of a horse's hoof to protect it from wear and tear. It is also a game in which players toss horseshoes at stakes in the ground, with points awarded for encircling the stake or landing closest to it. Phrases include 'lucky horseshoe,' and 'throwing horseshoes,' while 'horseshoe crab' refers to a marine arthropod with a hard, horseshoe-shaped shell.

How do native speakers use this expression?