equestrian

1 of 2

adjective

eques·​tri·​an i-ˈkwe-strē-ən 

1

a

: of, relating to, or featuring horseback riding

equestrian Olympic events

b

archaic : riding on horseback : mounted

c

: representing a person on horseback

2

: of, relating to, or composed of knights

equestrian

2 of 2

noun

: one who rides on horseback

Did you know?

Equestrian comes from equus, Latin for "horse". Old statues of military heroes, like the famous one of General Sherman on New York's Fifth Avenue, are frequently equestrian. In these sculptures the man always sits nobly upright on a horse, but the horse's stance varies; depending on whether the rider was killed in battle or survived, was victorious or defeated, the horse traditionally stands with four, three, or two hooves on the ground. Equestrian statues have been popular through the centuries, because until the 20th century almost every officer in Europe and America was trained in equestrian skills and combat.

Examples of equestrian in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Amszke Vegan Leather Saddle Bag Structured and understated, this vegan leather saddle bag channels the equestrian roots of classic prep style. —Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 19 Oct. 2025

The amenities include secluded beaches, a golf course, a beach club, an equestrian centre, fitness and spa facilities, and an organic farm. —Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 18 Oct. 2025

Noun

That was the remit behind everything from the first Chelsea boots donned by Victorian-era equestrians to the combat boots worn by millions during the Second World War. —Eric Twardzik, Robb Report, 17 Oct. 2025

Mayor Steve Vaus added a separate recommendation to include guidance on e-bikes that encounter equestrians. —Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 14 Oct. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin equestr-, equester of a horseman, from eques horseman, from equus horse — more at equine

First Known Use

Adjective

circa 1681, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Noun

1774, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for equestrian

• pedestrian

Kids Definition

equestrian

1 of 2 adjective

eques·​tri·​an i-ˈkwes-trē-ən 

: of or relating to horses, horseback riding, or people who ride horses

equestrian

2 of 2 noun

: one who rides on horseback