What does hurdling mean?
Hurdling is the activity of running a race while jumping over a series of barriers placed at intervals. The hurdles vary in height and are positioned so that competitors must clear each one without their feet touching the ground. The technique requires a combination of speed, balance, timing, and coordination, and the fastest overall time generally determines the winner. Hurdling also refers more broadly to jumping over an obstacle or barrier, though this use is less common than the sporting sense. The word is especially useful when discussing athletics, training, competition, or the characteristic sequence of accelerating, taking off, clearing the bar, and landing before the next hurdle. It is well established in both British and American English.
To run over or jump over a hurdle, especially as part of a race.
"The runners rounded the bend and began hurdling the final barriers."
Also used more broadly for jumping over obstacles or barriers.
The sport or activity of running in races over hurdles.
"Hurdling is one of the most demanding events in track and field."
Usually treated as an uncountable name for the activity; individual races are called hurdles.
Usually uncountable; plural forms are uncommon.
"Hurdling demands both speed and precise technique."
Hurdling turns a simple fence into a test of speed, timing, and courage.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hurdling come from?
Hurdling is formed from the noun and verb “hurdle.” The word “hurdle” comes through Middle English from Old English “hurdel,” originally meaning a fence or barrier made from woven material; it later developed the senses of an obstacle and of the barriers used in races. Hurdling developed as a term for running or jumping over obstacles, eventually becoming especially associated with track and field competition.
Related word forms
How hurdling is actually used
The word is standard in British and American English. In athletics, the races themselves are commonly called “hurdles,” while “hurdling” names the activity or the action of clearing each obstacle.