poll evil

[pohl]

noun

Veterinary Pathology.

1. an acute swelling on the top of the head of a horse originating in an inflamed bursa that underlies the great neck ligament there.

Word History and Origins

Origin of poll evil¹

First recorded in 1600–10

Example Sentences

A fractured hip-bone is frequently caused by horses rushing through narrow doorways, and a troublesome disease known as “poll evil” is generally caused by striking the head against too low a one.

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Poll evil is a fistula upon the poll, and in no sense differs from fistulous withers except in location.

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The description of fistula will apply, then, in the main, to poll evil equally well.

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What are the causes of fistula and poll evil?

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This is of special importance on premises where several horses develop fistulous withers and poll evil.

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