Word: Warhorse
Part of Speech: Noun
Basic Definition:
Literal Meaning: A "warhorse" is a horse that has been used in battles. These horses were strong and trained to carry soldiers into combat.
Figurative Meaning: A "warhorse" can also refer to a person who has a lot of experience in a particular field, especially someone who has faced many challenges or has been through many difficult situations.
Art and Literature: In the context of art or drama, a "warhorse" refers to a work (like a play or a piece of music) that is very well-known but has been performed so many times that it has lost some of its original impact or excitement.
Usage Instructions:
Use "warhorse" when talking about a horse used in battles when discussing history or military topics.
Use it figuratively to describe a seasoned professional in any field, such as medicine, sports, or the arts.
In discussions about theatre or music, you can use "warhorse" to describe classic works that audiences frequently see.
Examples:
Literal: "The knight rode his warhorse into battle, proud and brave."
Figurative: "After years in the industry, she has become a warhorse in the world of finance, respected by her peers."
Art: "Shakespeare's plays are often considered warhorses in the world of theatre, performed everywhere but sometimes lacking freshness."
Advanced Usage:
When discussing literature or music, you might say, "While Beethoven's Fifth Symphony is a warhorse of classical music, it still holds power and emotion for many listeners."
In a professional context, you might say, "He is a warhorse in the tech industry, having led many successful projects over the decades."
Word Variants:
Warhorses (plural): Referring to multiple horses or experienced individuals.
Warhorse-like (adjective): Describing someone or something that has qualities of a "warhorse," usually implying experience or reliability.
Different Meanings:
Historical Context: Refers strictly to horses used in warfare.
Experience Context: Refers to individuals with extensive experience.
Cultural Context: Refers to well-known works of art that may feel overused.
Synonyms:
For the horse context: cavalry horse, battle steed
For the experienced person: veteran, old hand, seasoned professional
For the art context: classic, staple work, standard piece
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While there are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs specifically associated with "warhorse," you might encounter phrases like "battle-tested," which conveys a similar meaning of experience and reliability.
Summary:
The word "warhorse" can refer to a horse used in battle, an experienced person in a certain field, or a well-known piece of art that has become common.