noun
steed
STEED/stiːd/
A horse, especially one used for riding.
The saddled steed stands ready beside the path.
Etymology
Old English steda meant a stallion or stud horse. Its later use for a spirited war horse helps explain why steed suggests a noble or vigorous mount rather than an ordinary horse.
In context
a horseman cleared himself and dashed for the hedge, only to have his steed slain under him and to be hurled from his saddle.