Hobbyhorse

Pronunciation: /ˈhɑbiˌhɔrs/

Definitions of hobbyhorse

noun a child's toy consisting of a stick with a model of a horse's head at one end

Example Sentences

A1 My hobbyhorse is collecting stamps.

A2 She enjoys riding her hobbyhorse in the park.

B1 His hobbyhorse is woodworking, he loves making furniture.

B2 The artist's hobbyhorse is painting landscapes.

C1 Her hobbyhorse of studying ancient civilizations has led her to become an archaeologist.

C2 The professor's hobbyhorse is researching the effects of climate change on marine life.

Examples of hobbyhorse in a Sentence

formal In the 17th century, a hobbyhorse was a popular toy resembling a horse on a stick.

informal Sarah's hobbyhorse is collecting vintage vinyl records.

slang I don't understand why he's always on his hobbyhorse about politics.

figurative His insistence on perfection is his hobbyhorse, always striving for the unattainable.

Grammatical Forms of hobbyhorse

• past tense: hobbyhorsed
• plural: hobbyhorses
• comparative: more hobbyhorse
• superlative: most hobbyhorse
• present tense: hobbyhorses
• future tense: will hobbyhorse
• perfect tense: have hobbyhorsed
• continuous tense: is hobbyhorsing
• singular: hobbyhorse
• positive degree: hobbyhorse
• infinitive: to hobbyhorse
• gerund: hobbyhorsing
• participle: hobbyhorsed

Origin and Evolution of hobbyhorse

First Known Use: 1550 year

Language of Origin: Middle English

Story behind the word: The word 'hobbyhorse' originated from the Middle English term 'hoby,' which referred to a small horse or pony, and 'horse,' denoting a large animal. It was used to describe a child's toy horse or a figure representing a horse on a stick.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the term 'hobbyhorse' evolved to also mean a favorite pastime or activity pursued for pleasure rather than monetary gain. The word expanded its meaning to include personal interests, hobbies, or obsessions unrelated to actual horses.