saddle sore

noun

1. an irritation or sore on a horse caused by the rubbing of a poorly adjusted saddle.

2. an irritation or sore on a rider caused by a saddle.

saddle-sore

adjective

1. sore after riding a horse

2. (of a horse or rider) having sores caused by the chafing of the saddle

noun

1. such a sore

Word History and Origins

Origin of saddle sore¹

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

“This Paramount color release is worth seeing,” Thompson added, “if only for the casual, saddle-sore expertise and ribaldry” of Wayne and Mitchum, whom he referred to as “these two leathery dudes.”

From New York Times

From punctured tyres to saddle-sore cyclists, Dixon says there can be challenges to keeping such an eco-friendly show on the road.

From BBC

Lance Armstrong, a disgraced American former champion, tested positive for it in 1999, before covering his tracks with a backdated permission for a saddle-sore cream containing the substance.

From Economist

Midweek, saddle-sore, we decided to take a break from ranch life and make our way into Jackson for a day.

From Washington Post

I was getting saddle-sore, so I moved seat and found myself next to the legendary athlete Daniel Komen.

From The Guardian