dressage

noun

dres·​sage drə-ˈsäzh 

dre-

often attributive

: the execution by a trained horse of precision movements in response to barely perceptible signals from its rider

Did you know?

This is a sport involving the execution of precise movements by a trained horse in response to barely perceptible signals from its rider. The word dressage means “training” in French. Particularly important are the animal’s pace and bearing in performing walks, trots, canters, and more specialized maneuvers. Training is divided into the elementary campagne and the advanced haute école. Dressage competitions have been included in the Olympic Games since 1912. Riders compete as individuals and in teams.

Examples of dressage in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

And, in part because dressage is expensive, the competitive circle is small. — Ian Parker, New Yorker, 14 Sep. 2026

In 2022, Germany’s Jessica von Bredow-Werndl, then and now the reigning Olympic dressage champion, chose to apply for the points-freezing process when stepping away to have her second child. — Tilly Berendt, New York Times, 11 Sep. 2026

The Garment’s spring collection included equestrian staples like knee-high boots, elevated leggings, and gloves and other ensembles that could have gone right to a dressage show. — Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 11 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

French, from dresser to train, drill, from Middle French

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for dressage

• barrage
• collage
• corsage
• garage
• massage
• mirage
• montage
• swaraj
• arbitrage
• camouflage
• entourage
• sabotage