Definition

1. Noun:

   • A grooming tool for horses, consisting of a flat, usually square or rectangular, piece of metal or hard rubber with rows of short, closely-set teeth or serrations on one side and a handle on the other. It is used to remove dirt, loose hair, and dried sweat from a horse's coat.

2. Verb:

   • To groom or clean a horse by vigorously rubbing its coat with a currycomb. This action loosens dirt and stimulates the skin and hair follicles.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:

  • The groom reached for the currycomb to begin cleaning the horse's muddy coat.
  • A good currycomb is an essential tool in any stable.

• Verb:

  • You should currycomb the horse before you brush it to lift the dirt to the surface.
  • She currycombs her pony every morning to keep its coat healthy and shiny.

Advanced Usage

• "to curry favor": This is an idiomatic expression derived from an older, unrelated meaning of "curry" (to prepare or dress). It means to seek to gain favor or approval through flattery or servile behavior. It is important to note this is a separate idiom and does not involve the tool.
  • He was always bringing the boss coffee, clearly trying to curry favor.

Variants and Related Words

• Curry (verb, in grooming context): An older, more general term for grooming a horse, which includes using a currycomb, brushing, and combing. The tool "currycomb" is named for this action.
• Grooming brush (noun): A softer brush used after the currycomb to remove the loosened dirt and smooth the coat.

Synonyms

• Grooming comb (noun, general)
• Rub down (verb, for the action)

Related Phrases

• To give a horse a good currying: This phrase means to thoroughly groom a horse, which always involves using a currycomb.
  • After the long ride, the horse deserved a good currying.

Noun

1. a square comb with rows of small teeth; used to curry horses

Verb

1. clean (a horse) with a currycomb