IPA: /ˈtʃɛkˌreɪn/
KK: /ˈtʃɛkˌreɪn/
A type of rein used in horse riding that connects the bit of one horse to the driving rein of another horse, or helps to keep a horse from lowering its head.
The rider adjusted the checkrein to ensure the horse maintained its posture during the ride.
Checkrein → The word originates from the combination of 'check' (from Old French *eschec*, meaning to check or stop) and 'rein' (from Old French *reine*, meaning a strap or cord used to control a horse). The term 'checkrein' refers to a strap that checks or limits the movement of a horse's head, thus controlling its direction.
Think of 'checking' or stopping a horse's movement with a 'rein' — that's why a checkrein is used to control a horse.