Definition

A bony growth or enlargement that occurs on the hock joint of a horse, often due to strain or injury.

Example

The veterinarian diagnosed the horse with spavin after noticing the swelling on its hock.

Conversation

I heard your horse has a bit of a spavin issue.

Yeah, it’s a bony enlargement at the hock, really concerning.

Have you taken him to the vet about the spavin?

I have, and they suggested some rest and therapy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Spavin originates from Middle English 'spavyn', which is derived from Old French 'espavain', meaning a disease of the horse's hock. The term specifically refers to a bony enlargement on a horse's hock joint, indicating a specific condition affecting horses.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old French word 'espavain' that refers to a horse's joint condition — this helps you remember that 'spavin' is related to a disease affecting horses.

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