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

It’s a repetitive strain injury that results in a fracture to the cannon bone above the fetlock due to large loads transmitted during high-speed workouts.

From Washington Times • Oct. 29, 2023

Ulysses, the morning-line 7-2 favorite in the Turf on Saturday, was diagnosed with mild inflammation of the left fetlock by the track veterinarian and was deleted Friday night from the field.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 4, 2017

There was a big setback to the challenge overnight, however, as Ulysses, the narrow second-favourite for the Turf, was ruled out of the race when he was found to have heat in a fetlock.

From The Guardian • Nov. 4, 2017

In the fetlock, just above the hoof, my beautiful pony had a deep, raw, red wound.

From "Summer of the Monkeys" by Wilson Rawls