HORSECOLLAR Meaning and
Definition
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The term "horsecollar" is a noun that primarily refers to a piece of equipment used in horse riding and handling. As a saddlery item, it is designed to encircle the neck of a horse, serving both practical and decorative purposes. The horsecollar is typically made of leather or synthetic materials and is fastened around the animal's neck using straps or buckles. It provides support and stability to the horse's neck while being ridden or pulling a load.
Additionally, "horsecollar" can also describe a specific tackling technique used in American football. In this context, it refers to an illegal move targeting the area around the collarbone of a ball carrier. It involves grasping the back inside of the shoulder pads or jersey and abruptly yanking the player backward, often causing injury due to the sudden force applied to the upper body. The horsecollar tackle has been prohibited in the sport due to its potential to cause severe harm.
While the use of the horsecollar in horse riding equipment has been practiced for centuries, the term's usage in American football emerged in the 1990s as concerns grew regarding player safety. The shift in meaning highlights the importance of considering historical and contextual differences when interpreting language.
Etymology of HORSECOLLAR
The word "horsecollar" is derived from the combination of two words: "horse" and "collar".
The term "horse" can be traced back to the Old English word "hors", which has Germanic origins. It has cognates in several other Germanic languages, such as the Old Frisian "hors", Old Dutch "ros", and Old Norse "hross". These all ultimately derive from the Proto-Germanic word "hrussą".
The word "collar" originates from the Old French word "coler", which came from the Latin word "collare", meaning "band around the neck" or "nape". Latin "collum" refers to "neck" or "throat".
In combination, "horse" and "collar" form the term "horsecollar", referring to the collar worn by horses.
