English Lexicon

Canter

/ˈkæntər/
nounverbCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A smooth, easy gait of a horse, faster than a trot but slower than a gallop.

    "The horse moved gracefully at a canter across the field."
As verb
  1. 1

    To move at a canter; to ride a horse at this pace.

    "She cantered along the beach, enjoying the fresh sea air."

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Synonyms (3)
Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'canter' originates from the early 19th century, derived from the phrase 'Canterbury gallop', referring to the pace of a horse that was often used by pilgrims traveling to Canterbury. The word evolved to describe a specific gait of a horse that is faster than a trot but slower than a gallop.

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