Definition

1. Noun:
   • A track and field event: A "hurdle race" is a specific type of footrace where runners must clear a series of barriers called hurdles placed along the track.
   • A competition involving obstacles: It refers to any race where the primary challenge is to overcome a set of obstacles at speed while maintaining a running stride.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • She trained for months to compete in the 100-meter hurdle race.
  • The hurdle race is one of the most technically demanding events in athletics.

Advanced Usage

• "to run a hurdle race": to participate in this specific athletic event.
  • He decided to run the hurdle race instead of the flat sprint.
• Used metaphorically: To describe a process with a series of difficult challenges.
  • Getting the project approved felt like running a hurdle race with all the bureaucratic obstacles.

Variants and Related Words

• Hurdle (n): An individual barrier to be jumped over in such a race.
  • He knocked over the third hurdle but finished the race.
• Hurdler (n): An athlete who competes in hurdle races.
  • She is a world-class hurdler.
• Hurdling (n): The sport or activity of running in hurdle races.
  • Hurdling requires a unique combination of speed, rhythm, and technique.

Synonyms

• Hurdles (n): Often used interchangeably with "hurdle race" in an athletic context.
  • She won a gold medal in the 400-meter hurdles.

Related Phrases

• Steeplechase (n): A different track event that includes hurdles and a water jump, often compared to a hurdle race.
  • Unlike a standard hurdle race, the steeplechase features fixed barriers.

Noun

1. a footrace in which contestants must negotiate a series of hurdles