withers
2
9.6
The highest part of a horse's back at the base of its neck where a saddle rests
- noun
- /ˈwɪðərz/
- Specialized
:
cruz
Compounds
fistulous withers
- Specialized
9.9
A long-lasting sore on a horse's withers that causes swelling and pus
Surface Forms
Etymology
The word withers comes from an Old English word wiðer meaning 'against', because it is the high ridge where a saddle presses 'against' the animal. So withers now means the top of the back at the base of the neck where a saddle rests.