# paddock

/ˈpædək/ (US) · /pˈædək/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/paddock
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

a small field or area of land where animals like horses are kept. In sports like car racing, it is also the place where teams prepare their vehicles.

For teachers: a small, enclosed field for pasturing or exercising animals, particularly horses. In a sporting context, refers to the enclosure where competitors and vehicles assemble before a race.

## Examples

- The horses are grazing quietly in the paddock.
- Before the race began, the mechanics worked feverishly in the paddock to adjust the car's tire pressure.
- The equestrian center features several grass paddocks and a larger arena, allowing the trainers to rotate the livestock to prevent overgrazing and maintain the quality of the turf.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in agricultural and equestrian contexts; in motor racing, it refers specifically to the technical and team area.

---

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.