ringbone

[ ring-bohn ]

noun

, Veterinary Pathology.

1. a morbid bony growth on the pastern bones of a horse, often resulting in lameness.

ringbone

/ ˈrɪŋˌbəʊn /

noun

1. an abnormal bony growth affecting the pastern of a horse, often causing lameness

Word History and Origins

Origin of ringbone¹

First recorded in 1515–25; ring ¹ + bone

Example Sentences

A 1925 article on the capital’s equestrian statues noted: “The poorest plug in Washington is the one that General Winfield Scott bestrides at the center of Scott Circle. Yet it is a perfectly natural old Dobbin, suffering slightly from ringbone lameness and not daring to travel faster than a walk.”

From Washington Post

I am the man in the her­ringbone vest.

From Literature

Ursa Major.—There is no real cure for ringbone.

From Project Gutenberg

Synnorix.—I said in a former letter that there was no cure for ringbone; I have since heard of one which I consider invaluable, and the lady who possesses it would sell it for a trifling sum.

From Project Gutenberg

Not a flaw in the mule; no sign of ringbone or spavin, and when a mule ain't got them, he's got nothin' wrong.

From Project Gutenberg