Definition

Noun: 1. An obstacle in certain races, especially steeplechase, consisting of a pool or ditch filled with water that competitors must jump over: A "water jump" is a specific type of barrier designed to test the jumping ability and stamina of horses (in equestrian events) or athletes (in track and field). It is a defining feature of the steeplechase.

Usage

• The term is used almost exclusively in the context of competitive racing sports.
• It refers to the physical obstacle itself, not the action of jumping over it.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The horse cleared the final water jump and sprinted toward the finish line.
  • The course designer made the water jump particularly wide this year to increase the challenge.
  • He fell into the water jump during the 3000-meter steeplechase but finished the race.

Advanced Usage

• "to negotiate the water jump": To successfully clear or deal with the water jump obstacle during a race.
  • The key to winning is how well your horse can negotiate the water jump.

Variants and Related Words

• Steeplechase (n): A long race in which runners or horses must jump over various obstacles, including water jumps.
• Hurdle (n): A barrier to be jumped in a race. A water jump is a specific type of hurdle.
• Ditch (n): A trench. In some contexts, a water jump may be referred to simply as a ditch when filled with water.

Synonyms

• Water obstacle: A more general term for any barrier involving water in a race or competition.
• Brook jump: An older or less common term with a similar meaning.

Notes

• The "water jump" is a compound noun. The core word being explained is the entire compound "water jump," which functions as a single lexical unit with a specific meaning in sports.
• It is not typically used in idiomatic expressions outside of its sporting context.

Noun

1. a pool or stream in a steeplechase or similar contest