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

That goes to equestrian rider Steffen Peters, who will compete in team and individual dressage at age 59. —Austin Knoblauch, Los Angeles Times, 23 July 2024

Another medal in Paris, in either individual or team dressage, would have broken the tie with retired track cyclist Laura Kenny. —David Close, CNN, 23 July 2024

And just in case equestrian events aren’t hoity-toity enough, the 2024 dressage and jumping will unfold at the Palace of Versailles. —Vulture Staff, Vulture, 24 May 2024

Women dominate Olympic levels of three-day eventing, show jumping and dressage, sports that require enormous strength and skill. —Tribune News Service, Hartford Courant, 1 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above