Hurdle Meaning and Definition

Hurdle

Hurdle

Pronunciation

/ˈhɜːrdəl/

Part of Speech

Verb or Noun

Definition

1. A barrier or obstacle that must be overcome in a competition or challenge.
2. A type of fence or barrier used in track and field events, typically consisting of a series of horizontal bars of increasing height.

Examples

  • She cleared the hurdle in the high jump competition.
  • The athlete had to navigate through a series of hurdles in the obstacle course.

Synonyms

  • Obstacle
  • Barrier

Antonyms

  • Opportunity
  • Advantage

Etymology

The word ‘hurdle’ originated from the Old English word ‘hurdol’, which referred to a type of hurdle used in sports and games. Over time, the word evolved to encompass a broader range of meanings, including a barrier or obstacle to be overcome.

Usage Notes

The word ‘hurdle’ can be used as both a verb and a noun. As a verb, it means to overcome or clear an obstacle. As a noun, it refers to the obstacle itself or a type of fence used in track and field events.

Cultural References

The word ‘hurdle’ has been used in various cultural references, including literature, film, and sports. For example, in the novel ‘The Hunger Games’, the main character Katniss Everdeen must navigate through a series of hurdles in the arena.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • To clear the hurdle
  • To overcome the hurdle
  • To hurdle over

Related Words or Phrases

  • Obstacle
  • Barrier
  • Challenging

Collocations

  • Hurdle race
  • Hurdle competition
  • To hurdle over

Frequency of Use

The word ‘hurdle’ is commonly used in sports and competition contexts, particularly in track and field events. It is also used in everyday language to refer to obstacles or challenges that must be overcome.

Common Misspellings

  • Harldle
  • Hurdel
  • Herdlle