Langimage
English

hurdle

|hur/dle|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈhɜːrdl/

🇬🇧

/ˈhɜːdl/

obstacle

Etymology
Etymology Information

'hurdle' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'hyrdel', where 'hyrd' meant 'fence' or 'barrier'.

Historical Evolution

'hyrdel' transformed into the Middle English word 'hurdle', and eventually became the modern English word 'hurdle'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a temporary fence', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'an obstacle or barrier'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

an obstacle or barrier that must be overcome.

The athlete jumped over the hurdle with ease.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to jump over a barrier or obstacle.

She hurdled the fence effortlessly.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:42