English Explanatory Dictionary

hobble

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. One of the short straps tied between the legs of unfenced horses, allowing them to wander short distances but preventing them from running off.
  2. An unsteady, off-balance step.
  3. A difficult situation; a scrape.
  4. An odd job; a piece of casual work.
verb
  1. To fetter by tying the legs; to restrict (a horse) with hobbles.
  2. To walk lame, or unevenly.
  3. To move or proceed roughly or irregularly.
  4. To disable; to impede.

Pronunciation

/ˈhɒbəl/ LL-Q1860 (eng)-Vealhurl-hobble.wav

Word forms

hobble hobbles hobbling hobbled

Etymology

From Middle English hobblen, hobelen, akin to Middle Dutch hoblen, hobbelen (Modern Dutch hobbelen).

Synonyms

tether shackle enshackle hirple nobble hamper hinder embarrass

Derived words

chain hobble hobblebush hobble-bush hobble-chain hobble chain hobble knot hobblerope hobble-rope hobble rope hobble skirt hobble-skirted hobblesome hobblingly hobbly unhobble
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