What does pony mean?
A pony is a small horse, usually one of a type or breed noted for its compact size, sturdy build, and manageable temperament. The word can also refer to a small horse used in racing and, figuratively, to a small or relatively insignificant person or organization, as in “a pony of a business.” In informal American English, “to pony up” means to contribute money or other resources, often when sharing a cost with someone else. The term is distinct from “foal,” which refers to a horse by age rather than size or breed. Pony is also used in established compounds such as “pony express” and “pony up,” and it appears across British and American English in equestrian, racing, recreational, and figurative contexts.
A small horse, especially one of a breed characterized by a compact size and sturdy build.
"The pony grazed quietly beside the fence."
The word can also refer to a small racing horse and is used figuratively for a small person or organization.
To contribute or pay money, especially as part of sharing a cost.
"We each had to pony up for the replacement uniforms."
This sense is informal and is usually used in the phrase “pony up.”
The standard plural of “pony” is “ponies.”
"Several ponies were led into the paddock."
A pony is not simply a baby horse: a foal is a horse defined by age, while a pony is defined by its small size or breed.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does pony come from?
English borrowed the word from French “poney” during the late medieval period. Its ultimate origin is not entirely certain, though it is commonly linked to Latin “pullus,” meaning a young animal, through medieval French forms. The word “poney” survives as a historical or less usual spelling, while “pullet” and “poultry” reflect related Latin ancestry.
Related word forms
How pony is actually used
“Pony” is standard British and American English. The expression “pony up” is informal and usually means to pay or contribute reluctantly but good-naturedly. In “pony express,” the term refers to a rapid horse relay service, not specifically to small horses.
Easily confused with pony
“Pony” refers to a small horse, while “penny” is a coin or the amount equal to one cent.
A pony is a small mature horse of a particular type or breed, whereas a foal is a young horse, usually less than four years old.