Sleigh

/sleɪ/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A vehicle of various forms, mounted on runners and often drawn by a horse, used for traveling or for conveying loads over snow or ice.
The children eagerly climbed into the sleigh for a ride through the snowy landscape.
A type of sled used for sliding down hills or for racing on snow.
We took our sleds to the hill and spent the afternoon sliding down on our sleighs.
verb
To travel or ride in a sleigh.
We sleighed across the frozen lake, enjoying the crisp winter air.

Etymology

From Middle English sleigh, from Old Norse sleði.

Common Phrases and Expressions

sleigh ride
A recreational activity involving riding in a sleigh, especially during winter.
sleigh bells
Bell sounds that are often associated with sleighs, commonly heard during Christmas.

Related Words

sled
A small vehicle of various types used for traveling on snow.
sledge
A heavy sled for hauling heavy loads.

Slang Meanings

To 'sleigh' something can mean to do it exceptionally well or to succeed brilliantly.
He really sleighed that performance last night!
A term used in popular culture to describe someone who is attractive or fashionable.
She was sleighing in that outfit.