noun
Common
riding
REYE-dihng
Riding (noun) means the activity of travelling on horseback, a bicycle, or similar. Example: “She takes riding lessons every Saturday.”
noun
1
The activity of travelling on horseback, a bicycle, or similar.
"She takes riding lessons every Saturday."
"Cycling is cheap, but riding in heavy traffic makes me nervous."
"Horse riding is popular in the village, and there are two stables."
2
An electoral district or constituency, especially in Canada.
"The MP has represented the riding for over a decade."
"Voters in the riding gathered at the school hall to hear the candidates."
"She grew up in a rural riding far from the nearest city."
How to use riding
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither the activity of riding, or (in Canadian English) an electoral district.
UK vs US
In Canada, "riding" is the everyday word for what the UK and US usually call a constituency or district.
Common pairings
horse riding
win the riding
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Word forms
- Plural
- ridings
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She takes _____ lessons every Saturday.
Etymology
From Middle English rydyng, formed from ride plus -ing.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for riding
See all rhymes for riding →Frequently asked questions
What does “riding” mean?
The word “riding” means the activity of travelling on horseback, a bicycle, or similar. In plain terms, either the activity of riding, or (in Canadian English) an electoral district.
How do you pronounce “riding”?
“Riding” is pronounced REYE-dihng (/ˈɹaɪ.dɪŋ/ in IPA).
How do you use “riding” in a sentence?
Here is “riding” used in a sentence: “She takes riding lessons every Saturday.”
What part of speech is “riding”?
“Riding” is a noun.
Where does the word “riding” come from?
The word “riding” comes from Middle English. From Middle English rydyng, formed from ride plus -ing.
Is “riding” a common word?
“Riding” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “riding” have?
“Riding” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the activity of travelling on horseback, a bicycle, or similar.
What are the types of riding?
Riding covers several activities linked by sitting astride and travelling. Horse riding includes styles like dressage, show jumping, and trail riding. Cycling covers road, mountain, and BMX riding. There is also motorcycle riding and, more loosely, riding a scooter or similar. Each shares the basic idea of being carried along while balancing and steering.
What is the difference between riding and driving?
You ride something you sit on and balance — a horse, bike, or motorcycle — or ride as a passenger being carried along. You drive a vehicle you operate from inside, such as a car, bus, or truck. So a cyclist rides, a motorist drives, and a passenger in a taxi is simply riding.
Is riding good exercise?
It can be, depending on the type. Cycling is strong aerobic exercise that builds leg strength and stamina with little strain on the joints. Horse riding works the core, legs, and balance more than it looks, and caring for the horse adds effort. Both improve coordination and can support overall fitness.
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