Pronunciation: [ɡˌə͡ʊɪŋ lˈe͡ɪm] (IPA) 
The phrase "going lame" is often used to describe an animal that starts experiencing difficulty in walking or running. The word "going" is spelled as /ˈɡoʊɪŋ/, with a long "o" sound, and the word "lame" is spelled as /leɪm/, with a long "a" sound. In phonetic terms, "going lame" is pronounced as /ˈɡoʊɪŋ leɪm/. Proper spelling is important in written communication as it helps convey the correct meaning and avoids confusion.
Going lame is a colloquial expression used to describe the condition in which an animal or a person experiences difficulty or pain while walking or moving due to a physical defect or injury. This term is primarily associated with horses, dogs, and other quadruped animals but can also apply to humans.
When an animal or a person is going lame, it means that there is a noticeable change in their gait or stride, indicating a problem with one or more of their limbs. This condition is often characterized by a limp or uneven weight distribution on the affected leg or legs. The lameness may manifest as a result of various factors, including sprains, strains, fractures, joint problems, nerve damage, or muscle weakness.
Identifying the cause of lameness is essential to determine the appropriate treatment or intervention. Veterinarians or medical professionals conduct thorough examinations, which may involve X-rays, physical examinations, and other diagnostic procedures to diagnose the underlying issue. Treatment options for lameness can vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition, and may include rest, medication, physical therapy, the use of assistive devices, or in more severe cases, surgery.
Overall, going lame refers to the condition wherein a living being experiences impaired movement due to injury or a physical defect, often resulting in a noticeable limp or difficulty in walking.
The phrase "going lame" is derived from Old English and Middle English roots.
The word "going" comes from the Old English verb "gān", which means "to go" or "to walk". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "gāną", which has the same meaning. Through various changes and developments in the English language over time, "gān" eventually became "go".
The word "lame" can be traced back to the Middle English adjective "lames" or "lame", which meant "disabled" or "crippled". It is believed to have originated from the Old English word "lame", which means "blemish" or "defect". The Old English word "lame" has Germanic roots and is related to the Dutch word "lam", the German word "lahm", and the Old Norse word "lamr".
