withers

[with-erz]

noun

(used with a plural verb)

1. the highest part of the back at the base of the neck of a horse, cow, sheep, etc.

withers

/ ˈwɪðəz /

plural noun

1. the highest part of the back of a horse, behind the neck between the shoulders

Word History and Origins

Origin of withers¹

First recorded in 1535–45; origin uncertain

Word History and Origins

Origin of withers¹

C16: short for widersones, from wider _with + -sones, perhaps variant of _sinew ; related to German Widerrist, Old English withre resistance

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

1. wring one's withers, to cause one anxiety or trouble.

   The long involved lawsuit is wringing his withers.