PACK HORSE Meaning and
Definition
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A pack horse refers to a sturdy equine animal, typically a horse, used for hauling or carrying heavy loads over long distances in rugged terrains. The term originates from the historical practice of using horses to transport goods and supplies before the advent of modern transportation methods.
The pack horse is specifically trained and conditioned to bear heavy burdens, often with the use of specialized saddles or packs known as panniers. These panniers are securely fastened to the animal's back, allowing for the transportation of various items such as supplies, equipment, or even personal belongings. Pack horses were particularly valuable in remote or mountainous regions, where wheeled or mechanized vehicles were impractical or nonexistent.
Pack horses require substantial strength, endurance, and navigation skills to navigate treacherous terrains or steep inclines comfortably. They possess distinct physical traits like a robust build, sturdy legs, and sure-footedness to ensure their reliability in challenging conditions. Their ability to travel long distances with heavy loads made them indispensable for explorers, traders, and settlers in the past.
In modern times, pack horses are less commonly used for commercial purposes, mainly due to the rise of more efficient means of transportation. Nonetheless, they still find applications in recreational activities such as horse packing trips or for transporting equipment in certain remote areas. Their historical significance and continued usefulness make pack horses an iconic symbol of traditional transportation and an integral part of equestrian lore.
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A horse formerly employed in carrying goods from place to place on its back.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for PACK HORSE
- packhorze
- -packhorse
- pakhorse
- packhors
- pack herze
- oack horse
- lack horse
- -ack horse
- 0ack horse
- pzck horse
- psck horse
- pwck horse
- pqck horse
- paxk horse
- pavk horse
- pafk horse
- padk horse
- pacj horse
- pacm horse
- pacl horse
Etymology of PACK HORSE
The word "pack horse" is derived from the Middle English term "pakkehors", which can be traced back to the Old French word "pacquoir" or "pacquer", meaning "to pack". This in turn originates from the Frankish word "pakkon", meaning "bundle" or "package". The word "horse" refers to the animal that is utilized for carrying the pack, typically serving as a beast of burden to transport goods or supplies.
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