Gallop

Podcast 1 · Introduction

Gallop

A documentary-style narration: origin, meaning, and feel.

Part of speech

noun and verb

Pronunciation

GAL-up  /ˈɡaləp/

Definition

As a verb: of a horse, to run at its fastest pace, in which all four feet leave the ground during each stride; to move with great speed. As a noun: the fastest pace of a horse; a rapid rate or pace.

Plain meaning

A gallop is the fastest pace of a horse — all four hooves leave the ground at once. To gallop also means to move at high speed — the project galloped ahead.

Register

Standard in equestrian contexts. Vivid and slightly dramatic in figurative use. Galloping is often used for things that are going faster than is comfortable.