# steeplechase

/ˈstipəɫˌtʃeɪs/ (US) · /stˈiːplɪtʃˌeɪs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/steeplechase
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

a long race for horses or runners with jumps over fences, water, and other obstacles. You see it at horse tracks and at big running events.

For teachers: a race in which horses or runners cross a course set with obstacles such as fences, ditches, and water jumps. The athletics version typically covers 3000 metres.

## Examples

- He runs the steeplechase for his school team.
- The horse cleared the final fence to win the steeplechase by two lengths in front of a cheering crowd.
- Originally run across open country from one church steeple to the next, the steeplechase still tests stamina and timing as competitors judge each leap over water and timber.

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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.