thoroughbred
thoroughbred Lexical Profile
thoroughbred Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A horse of a specific breed developed in England in the 17th and 18th centuries by crossing native mares with Arabian, Barb, and Turkoman stallions, prized for its speed, stamina, and agility in horse racing.
"The champion thoroughbred thundered down the final stretch of the racetrack."
Any animal of pure, unmixed breed with a recorded pedigree.
"Every dog entered in the championship show must be a registered thoroughbred."
A person or thing of exceptional quality, refinement, or high spirit.
"In the world of classical violinists, she is considered a true thoroughbred."
• adjective
Of pure or unmixed breed or stock, especially of a horse or dog.
"The kennel specializes in raising thoroughbred golden retrievers."
Possessing the refined,spirited, or superior qualities associated with pure breeding; genuine or consummate.
"With its hand-built V12 engine, the coupe is a thoroughbred sports car."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the early 18th century as a compound of 'thorough' and 'bred', originally describing horses bred from pure Arab or Barb stallions and English mares. By the late 18th century, it became the official name for the premier English breed of racehorse.