Definition of saddle
- n. - A seat for a rider, -- usually made of leather, padded to
span comfortably a horse's back, furnished with stirrups for the
rider's feet to rest in, and fastened in place with a girth; also, a
seat for the rider on a bicycle or tricycle.
- n. - A padded part of a harness which is worn on a horse's back,
being fastened in place with a girth. It serves various purposes, as to
keep the breeching in place, carry guides for the reins, etc.
- n. - A piece of meat containing a part of the backbone of an
animal with the ribs on each side; as, a saddle of mutton, of venison,
etc.
- n. - A block of wood, usually fastened to some spar, and shaped
to receive the end of another spar.
- n. - A part, as a flange, which is hollowed out to fit upon a
convex surface and serve as a means of attachment or support.
- n. - The clitellus of an earthworm.
- n. - The threshold of a door, when a separate piece from the
floor or landing; -- so called because it spans and covers the joint
between two floors.
- v. t. - To put a saddle upon; to equip (a beast) for riding.
- v. t. - Hence: To fix as a charge or burden upon; to load; to
encumber; as, to saddle a town with the expense of bridges and
highways.