RIDING ROUGHSHOD Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "riding roughshod" refers to a figurative expression that originated from an equestrian term. Riding roughshod means to act with disregard for the feelings, opinions, or interests of others, often to achieve one's own objectives forcefully and mercilessly, without considering the consequences or potential harm caused to others. It involves behaving in a domineering, authoritarian, or oppressive manner, without showing any empathy or taking into account the rights or welfare of others.
The term "roughshod" comes from the practice of attaching horseshoes with protruding nails, known as "calks" or "caulks," that grip the ground more effectively, especially in icy or slippery conditions. This allows the horse to navigate difficult terrains smoothly. However, when a horse is ridden wearing such horseshoes, it can cause discomfort, pain, or damage when it accidentally steps on or encounters other individuals or objects.
Metaphorically, riding roughshod over others implies a similar disregard for those who may be adversely affected by one's actions or decisions. It suggests a complete disregard for the sensitivities, rights, or opinions of others, often accompanied by an uncompromising and forceful determination to achieve one's objectives. The phrase is commonly used to describe behavior that is aggressive, authoritarian, or lacking in empathy or consideration for others.
Common Misspellings for RIDING ROUGHSHOD
Etymology of RIDING ROUGHSHOD
The phrase "riding roughshod" has its origins in horsemanship and dates back to the 16th century.
The term "roughshod" refers to a technique of shoeing horses. In the past, horses were shod with iron shoes that had projecting nail heads, providing added grip on slippery surfaces. However, some horses were shod differently, with the nails driven flush with the surface of the shoe. This method was known as "riding roughshod".
Riding roughshod allowed the rider to cover ground quickly and forcefully, trampling over obstacles in their path without much regard for their impact. The phrase "riding roughshod" eventually came to be used figuratively, referring to someone who acts without consideration for others, being forceful and assertive in their actions, often disregarding the consequences.
