DictionarynagInferior horse
noun

nag

An old or poor-quality horse.

The old nag moves slowly along the farm lane.

Etymology

The older word named a horse, especially a small riding horse. Its disparaging use narrowed to an inferior or worn-out animal.

More examples

  • Several nags grazed in the field.
  • He dismissed the horse as a worn-out nag.
  • The story follows a farmer and his patient nag.

Forms

nag · nags

Similar words

horse
The neutral animal name without judging quality.
hack
Can describe an ordinary riding horse rather than a fine one.