# gallop

/ˈɡæɫəp/ (US) · /ɡˈæləp/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/gallop
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

the fastest way a horse runs, where all four feet leave the ground at the same time. It can also mean moving very quickly in a way that feels like a horse running.

For teachers: the fastest gait of a horse or other quadruped, consisting of a succession of leaping strides. By extension, refers to a rapid or hurried pace of movement or progression.

## Examples

- The horse broke into a fast gallop across the field.
- We watched the herd of wild horses move from a slow trot into a full gallop as they reached the open plains.
- The novel moves at a breakneck gallop toward its conclusion, leaving little room for the quiet character development seen in the opening chapters.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the phrase 'at a gallop' to describe speed.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.