Langimage
English

hobble

|hob/ble|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈhɑːbəl/

🇬🇧

/ˈhɒbəl/

awkward movement

Etymology
Etymology Information

'hobble' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'hobelen,' where 'hobelen' meant 'to walk with difficulty.'

Historical Evolution

'hobelen' transformed into the modern English word 'hobble' through gradual phonetic changes.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to walk with difficulty,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a device used to restrict the movement of an animal, typically a horse.

The farmer used a hobble to keep the horse from wandering off.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to walk in an awkward way, typically because of pain or injury.

After twisting his ankle, he hobbled back home.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45