tantivy

American  

[tan-tiv-ee] / tænˈtɪv i /

adverb

1. at full gallop.

   to ride tantivy.

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adjective

1. swift; rapid.

noun

tantivies plural

1. a gallop; rush.

interjection

1. (used as a hunting cry when the chase is at full speed.)

tantivy British  

/ tænˈtɪvɪ /

adverb

1. at full speed; rapidly

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noun

1. a hunting cry, esp at full gallop

interjection

1. a hunting cry, esp at full gallop

Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• tantivies
  plural

Etymology

Origin of tantivy

First recorded in 1635–45; origin uncertain; possibly onomatopoeic, representing the sound of horses galloping

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

tantivy

Though gratifying to note that underclassmen Moran and confreres acquired the King's English tantivy, it is regrettable that the realm's manners apparently come tardigrade.

From Time Magazine Archive

From the supper-party comes the sound of an abortive chorus: "With a hey ho, chivy, hark forrard, hark forrard, tantivy!"

From The Fugitive by Galsworthy, John

Is it strange that I became known as the wildest tantivy boy that rode with the King?

From The Tavern Knight by Sabatini, Rafael

He was of a nature to ride tantivy into anything that promised excitement or adventure.

From Australia Felix by Richardson, Henry Handel

In the common-room one day sat as merry a company of carousers as ever gladdened the soul of an old tantivy boy.

From The Tavern Knight by Sabatini, Rafael