withers

with·ers

noun plural \ˈwi-thərz\

Definition of WITHERS

1

: the ridge between the shoulder bones of a horse — see horse illustration

2

: a part corresponding to the withers in a quadruped (as a dog) other than a horse

Origin of WITHERS

probably from obsolete English wither- against, from Middle English, from Old English, from wither against; from the withers being the parts which resist the pull in drawing a load — more at with

First Known Use: 1580

with·ers

noun plural \ˈwith-ərz\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of WITHERS

1

: the ridge between the shoulder bones of a horse

2

: a part corresponding to the withers in a quadruped other than a horse

Illustration of WITHERS