spavin

noun

spav·​in ˈspa-vən How to pronounce spavin (audio)
: swelling
especially : a bony enlargement of the hock of a horse associated with strain

Word History

Etymology

Middle English spavayne, from Middle French espavin, alteration of Old French esparvains, probably of Germanic origin; akin to Old High German sparo sparrow (likened to a lump)

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spavin was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near spavin

Cite this Entry

“Spavin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spavin. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

spavin

noun
spav·​in ˈspav-ən How to pronounce spavin (audio)
: a swelling of the hock of a horse associated with strain

Medical Definition

spavin

noun
spav·​in ˈspav-ən How to pronounce spavin (audio)
: osteoarthritis of the hock of a horse
spavined adjective
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