filly

UK: ˈfɪli | US: ˈfɪli

Definition

  1. n. a young female horse, typically under four years old

Structure
fill <young horse (from Old Norse "fylja")>y <noun suffix (diminutive or feminine)>
Etymology

The word "filly" originates from Old Norse fylja, meaning "young mare," which entered Middle English as filli. The suffix -y likely reinforces its diminutive or feminine connotation, distinguishing it from "colt" (a young male horse). The term has retained its specific zoological meaning in modern English, reflecting its Scandinavian roots.

Examples

  1. The farmer bought a spirited filly to train for racing.

  2. The filly pranced playfully in the meadow.

  3. She named the filly "Daisy" after its gentle nature.

  4. The black filly won her first race by a narrow margin.

  5. They admired the filly’s sleek coat and strong legs.