bull-fence
Definition
Noun: A "bull-fence" is a type of obstacle used in equestrian sports, specifically in horse racing or show jumping. It consists of a fence with a ditch or trench dug behind it, which the horse must jump over. The ditch adds difficulty and tests the horse's ability to clear a wider gap.
Usage Examples
- (A fence with a ditch behind it, used as an obstacle.)
- (The horse balked at the obstacle due to the ditch.)
Advanced Usage
"to clear a bull-fence": To successfully jump over a bull-fence without touching the fence or falling into the ditch.
- The rider urged her horse to clear the bull-fence cleanly. (The horse jumped over the fence and ditch without error.)
"a bull-fence combination": A series of bull-fences placed close together in a course, testing the horse's agility and stamina.
- The final round included a bull-fence combination that eliminated several competitors. (A set of bull-fence obstacles arranged in sequence.)
Variants and Related Words
- Bullfinch (n): An alternative name for a bull-fence, especially in hunting or cross-country riding.
- The hunt jumped a bullfinch, a fence with a ditch on the landing side. (A bull-fence used in fox hunting.)
Synonyms
- Oxer: A type of jump with two parallel rails and a ditch or spread between them (similar in difficulty).
- Steeplechase fence: A general term for obstacles in steeplechase, which often include bull-fences.
Related Idioms
- Jump the bull-fence: To overcome a significant challenge or obstacle, used metaphorically.
- After months of training, she finally jumped the bull-fence of her fear of public speaking. (She overcame a major personal obstacle.)
Notes on Usage
- The term "bull-fence" is specific to equestrian contexts and is not used in everyday language. It is most commonly encountered in descriptions of horse racing, show jumping, or cross-country riding events. The ditch behind the fence is a key distinguishing feature, as it requires the horse to jump both the fence and the gap.