fetlock

American  

[fet-lok] / ˈfɛtˌlɒk /

noun

1. the projection of the leg of a horse behind the joint between the cannon bone and great pastern bone, bearing a tuft of hair.

2. the tuft of hair itself.

3. Also called fetlock joint.  the joint at this point.

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fetlock British  

/ ˈfɛtˌlɒk /

noun

1. a projection behind and above a horse's hoof: the part of the leg between the cannon bone and the pastern

2. Also called: fetlock joint.  the joint at this part of the leg

3. the tuft of hair growing from this part

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Etymology

Origin of fetlock

1275–1325; Middle English fitlok, akin to Middle High German viz ( ze ) loch, ultimately derivative of Germanic *fet-, a gradational variant of *fot- foot

Example Sentences

The majority of the injuries involved a fetlock joint.

From New York Times • May 2, 2024

In 2019, 19 of the 21 early fatalities were all fetlock failures.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 9, 2023

The nonprofit’s success in restricting development has made big properties all the more inviting to wealthy newcomers who may or may not know a forelock from a fetlock.

From Washington Post • Apr. 10, 2015

Karma’s hoof became caught in a culvert that sliced through leg and bone at the fetlock joint and left her in critical condition.

From Washington Times • Nov. 23, 2014

I place my thumb and forefinger on the back of his fetlock.

From "Water for Elephants" by Sara Gruen