hurdle
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.”
How to use hurdle
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA physical barrier to jump over, or figuratively, any obstacle standing in your way.
Word forms
hurdled past tense, hurdles plural, Hurdles plural, hurdles singular
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
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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.