noun
Uncommon
hurdle
HURDL
Hurdle (noun) means a barrier that a runner or horse must jump over during a race. Example: “She cleared the final hurdle just ahead of the leader.”
noun
1
A barrier that a runner or horse must jump over during a race.
"She cleared the final hurdle just ahead of the leader."
2
An obstacle or difficulty that must be overcome.
"Getting funding was the biggest hurdle for the new business."
"Passing the exam is just one more hurdle before graduation."
verb
1
To jump over something while running, or to overcome a difficulty.
"The athlete hurdled the barrier without breaking stride."
"The team hurdled every setback to finish the project on time."
How to use hurdle
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA physical barrier to jump over, or figuratively, any obstacle standing in your way.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
clear a hurdle
jump a hurdle
overcome a hurdle
a major hurdle
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like hurdle.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- hurdles
- Third person singular
- hurdles
- Past tense
- hurdled
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She cleared the final _____ just ahead of the leader.
Etymology
From Old English hyrdel, a woven frame of twigs used as a temporary fence — the racing sense of "barrier to leap" grew out of this literal fence.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “hurdle” mean?
The word “hurdle” means a barrier that a runner or horse must jump over during a race. In plain terms, a physical barrier to jump over, or figuratively, any obstacle standing in your way.
How do you pronounce “hurdle”?
“Hurdle” is pronounced HURDL (/ˈhɝd(ə)l/ in IPA).
How do you use “hurdle” in a sentence?
Here is “hurdle” used in a sentence: “She cleared the final hurdle just ahead of the leader.”
What part of speech is “hurdle”?
Depending on how it is used, “hurdle” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “hurdle” come from?
The word “hurdle” comes from Old English. From Old English hyrdel, a woven frame of twigs used as a temporary fence — the racing sense of "barrier to leap" grew out of this literal fence.
Is “hurdle” a common word?
“Hurdle” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “hurdle” have?
“Hurdle” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a barrier that a runner or horse must jump over during a race.
