paddock
|pad-dock|
/ˈpædək/
small enclosed field
Etymology
'paddock' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'padda', where 'padda' meant 'toad'.
'paddock' changed from Middle English words such as 'padoc' or 'padock' (used for small enclosures) and eventually became the modern English word 'paddock'.
Initially it had senses including 'toad' (Old English) and later 'small enclosed field'; over time the 'toad' sense became archaic and the enclosure sense became the primary modern meaning.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a small enclosed field or area, usually next to a stable, used for grazing or exercising horses and other livestock.
The mare was turned out into the paddock for the afternoon.
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Antonyms
Noun 2
an enclosed area at a racecourse where horses are saddled, examined, and paraded before a race (also called the parade ring).
The jockeys walked the horses around the paddock before the race.
Synonyms
Noun 3
chiefly Australian: a small division of land or field used for grazing livestock.
They own several paddocks on their farm.
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Noun 4
archaic: a toad (former usage, now rare or literary).
In older texts, paddock sometimes refers to a toad.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/12/12 04:52