belly-band
Definition
- Noun:
- A strap around a horse's belly: "belly-band" refers to a band or strap that passes under the belly of a horse or other animal, used to secure a saddle, harness, or pack.
- A garment or support: In a historical or informal context, "belly-band" can also mean a type of wide belt or band worn around the abdomen for support or warmth.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The rider tightened the belly-band to ensure the saddle stayed in place. (A strap around the horse's belly for securing equipment.)
- He wore a woolen belly-band under his coat to keep warm during the cold ride. (A garment worn around the abdomen.)
Advanced Usage
"to cinch the belly-band": to tighten the strap securely.
- Before mounting, the groom carefully cinched the belly-band to prevent the saddle from slipping. (The strap was pulled tight for safety.)
"belly-band as a support": In some cultures, a "belly-band" is used post-surgery or during pregnancy for abdominal support.
- After her operation, she used a medical belly-band to reduce discomfort. (A supportive band worn around the stomach.)
Variants and Related Words
- Belly (n): the front part of the body below the chest; the abdomen.
- The horse's belly was covered with sweat. (The lower front area of the animal.)
- Band (n): a strip, strap, or loop of material used for binding or fastening.
- The leather band held the tools together. (A flexible strip of material.)
Synonyms
- Girth: a strap that passes under a horse's belly to secure a saddle (synonymous in equestrian use).
- Abdominal band: a general term for a band worn around the belly.
Related Idioms
- Belly up: (informal) to fail or collapse; not directly related but shares "belly."
- The business went belly up after the recession. (The business failed completely.)
- To have a band around one's belly: (rare) to feel tightness or restriction in the abdomen.
- After eating too much, he felt as if he had a band around his belly. (A sensation of tightness.)