quarter horse

noun

1. one of a breed of strong horses developed in the U.S. for short-distance races, usually a quarter of a mile.
2. a horse of this breed used in herding livestock.

quarter horse

noun

1. a small powerful breed of horse, originally bred for sprinting in quarter-mile races in Virginia in the late 18th century

Word History and Origins

Origin of quarter horse¹

An Americanism dating back to 1825–35

Example Sentences

All were quarter horses, meaning they wouldn’t be racing at Santa Anita or Del Mar. The five who were euthanized Wednesday also were quarter horses.

From Los Angeles Times

But it’s not gravity pulling him toward the finish line: It’s the brute force of a quarter horse named Sirius.

From Seattle Times

But it’s not gravity pulling him toward the finish line: It’s the brute force of a quarter horse named Sirius.

From Seattle Times

Williams said the new proposal was put together by racetrack veterinarians before being reviewed by officials in thoroughbred, standardbred and quarter horse racing.

From Seattle Times

The track will host the All American Futurity - the richest quarter horse race - over the Labor Day weekend.

From Washington Times