Meaning & Definition of word "Hoof"

Hoof

/huːf/

noun:

  • 1. The hard, tough covering on the feet of certain animals, such as horses, cows, and deer.
    • Example: The horse's hoof was well cared for, showing no signs of cracks or injury.
  • 2. The entire foot of an animal that has hooves.
    • Example: The deer tracks were clear, indicating the size of the hoof.

verb:

  • 1. To walk or run with the feet, especially in a manner indicating heavy, clumsy movement.
    • Example: The cattle hoofed it across the pasture in search of food.
  • 2. To kick or strike with a hoof.
    • Example: The horse hoofed the ground impatiently while waiting to be fed.

Etymology

Old English hufu, related to Dutch hoef and German Huf.

Common Phrases and Expressions

hoof it:

to walk or run quickly.

on one's hooves:

to be standing up on one's feet, usually in a restless or active state.

Related Words

ungulate:

A member of a diverse group of mammals that includes horses, cows, deer, and others with hooves.

farrier:

A person who trims and shoes the hooves of horses.

Slang Meanings of hoof

Meaning: To leave quickly.

Example Sentence: I need to hoof it to the train station before I miss my train.

Meaning: To use the feet energetically, especially when dancing.

Example Sentence: She really knows how to hoof it on the dance floor.