swayback

noun sway·back \ ˈswā-ˌbak \

Definition of swayback

1 : an abnormally hollow condition or sagging of the back found especially in horses; also : a sagging back

2 : abnormally exaggerated forward curvature of the lumbar and cervical regions of the spine : lordosis 2

Rarely is swayback a sign of anything serious. If you're in doubt, compare the posture of your child with that of other toddlers.
—Parenting

Recent Examples of swayback from the Web

Sarge is a swayback appaloosa, retired from ranch work who was headed to slaughter.

— denise coffey, Courant Community, "Working Small Miracles At Hay Burr Inn Equine Rescue," 19 Sep. 2017
While the swayback roofline looked like there might be foundation problems, Scott consulted several engineers only to learn there was no problem — just an eccentric design element Dilbeck often used to instantly age his homes.

— by gaile robinson photos by paul moseley, star-telegram, "Whimsical By Design: Charles Dilbeck’s 1938 ranch house still exudes luxury, comfort," 2 Aug. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'swayback.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of swayback

1821

in the meaning defined at sense 1

See Words from the same year

NEW! Time Traveler

Medical Dictionary

swayback

noun sway·back \ ˈswā-ˌbak, -ˈbak \

medical Definition of swayback

1 : an abnormally hollow condition or sagging of the back found especially in horses; also : a back so shaped

2 : lordosis 2

3 : a copper-deficiency disease of young or newborn lambs that is marked by demyelination of the brain resulting in weakness, staggering gait, and collapse and is almost universally fatal but is readily preventable by copper supplementation of the diet of the pregnant ewe

—