Meaning

(chiefly in the plural) One of the short straps tied between the legs of unfenced horses, allowing them to wander short distances but preventing them from running off..

Definitions by Sense

1. (chiefly in the plural) 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. (archaic, informal) A difficult situation; a scrape.
4. (dialect, UK and Newfoundland) An odd job; a piece of casual work.
5. To fetter by tying the legs; to restrict (a horse) with hobbles.
6. To walk lame, or unevenly.
7. (figurative) To move or proceed roughly or irregularly.
8. To disable; to impede.

Example Sentences

We made it and we hobbled up the stairs. Or I hobbled. My sons didn't hobble, I hobbled.

"Saddle a horse—any horse—only let him be sure and fleet," cried Ashwoode, "and I'll pay you his price thrice over!" "Well, it's a bargain," replied the groom, promptly; "I don't like to see a gentleman caught in a hobble, if I can help him out of it. […]

Near-synonyms: shackle, enshackle

you hobble your old horse and turn him grazing

The friar was hobbling the same way too.

Pepa runs all over Madrid in high heels and tube skirts that make her hobble and give the impression of restraining a naturally energetic woman.

The hobbling versification, the mean diction.

Near-synonyms: nobble, hamper, hinder, embarrass

Word Forms

• hobbles
• hobbling
• hobbled

Synonyms for hobble

Related Words

When Should You Use Hobble?

Use hobble when its meaning, tone and grammar fit the full sentence. A synonym is not always a direct replacement.

Practice This Word

Frequently Asked Questions