horseshoe
UK: ˈhɔːsʃuː | US: ˈhɔːrsʃuː
n. a U-shaped metal plate nailed to a horse's hoof to protect it
n. anything shaped like a horseshoe (e.g., a bend in a river)
The word "horseshoe" is a straightforward compound of "horse" (Old English hors, meaning the animal) and "shoe" (Old English scōh, meaning a foot covering). Historically, horseshoes were crafted to protect horses' hooves from wear and tear, especially on hard surfaces. The term reflects the functional purpose of the object—literally a "shoe for a horse." Over time, the shape became iconic, lending its name to similar U-shaped objects or patterns in nature.
The blacksmith forged a new horseshoe for the stallion.
They hung a lucky horseshoe above the barn door.
The river formed a perfect horseshoe bend.
She found a rusty horseshoe while hiking.
In some cultures, a horseshoe symbolizes good fortune.