  Hold Your HorsesIn Appalachian and Southern speech, "Hold your horses" is a common saying meaning "slow down" or "be patient." It comes from horse-riding days when you literally had to keep your horses from bolting ahead. Hillbilly Dude Says...  Hold your horses usually has a real quick 'now' right before it. But this one's in use. Pronunciation[HOHLD yer HOR-siz] Meaning & Usage- Be patient, slow down (saying)
Mae:
Hold your horses, supper ain’t ready yet.
Earl:
But I’m starvin’.other spellings: slow down, wait a minute, hang on, take it easy, and rein it in ★ This one works with kids, neighbors, or anybody moving too fast. It’s firm but usually good-natured. ★ OriginThe phrase dates back to the 1800s, when controlling a horse team was a daily task. Settlers carried it into Appalachian speech, where it became a common idiom for patience. NotesStill common in Appalachia and the South, but also widely recognized across America. It often carries a bit of humor or affection when used with kids. Say It Like a SouthernerSay it plain: "Hold yer horses." The "your" usually softens to "yer." | About We are a growing field guide to culture, speech, memory, and meaning - rooted in Appalachia, but wide as the world. Read more... |
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