Dressage

/drɛˈsɑːʒ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The art of riding, training, and presenting a horse in a manner that emphasizes precision, obedience, and smoothness of movement.
Her dedication to dressage has earned her several awards in regional competitions.
A competitive equestrian sport where horse and rider perform a series of predetermined movements from memory.
The Olympic dressage events showcase some of the finest horse and rider pairs in the world.
A form of horse training that develops balance, flexibility, and strength.
Dressage training helps improve a horse's response to commands and overall performance.

Etymology

French, from 'dresser' meaning 'to train' or 'to prepare'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

dressage competition
An event where riders display their horse's movements and training.
dressage test
A series of movements executed by a horse and rider in a specific order.
high school dressage
Advanced dressage movements performed by trained horses.

Related Words

equestrian
Relating to horse riding or horse management.
halter
A type of headgear used to lead or tie up a horse.
reining
A western riding discipline that involves controlling a horse's movements.

Slang Meanings

Making a horse look stylish or fancy.
He really worked on the dressage to make his horse look fly during the show.
Referring to excessive training or perfectionism in riding.
She's so into dressage that her horse might as well be a showpiece.