Furlongs meaning

A furlong is a unit of distance equal to 220 yards, or 1/8 of a mile, primarily used in horse racing.


Furlongs definitions

Word backwards sgnolruf
Part of speech The word "furlongs" is a noun. It is the plural form of "furlong," which is a unit of distance equal to 1/8 of a mile, commonly used in horse racing and other contexts.
Syllabic division The word "furlongs" can be separated into syllables as follows: fur-longs.
Plural The plural of the word "furlong" is "furlongs." The word is already in its plural form.
Total letters 8
Vogais (2) u,o
Consonants (6) f,r,l,n,g,s

Understanding Furlongs: A Unit of Measurement

A furlong is a unit of distance that is widely used in horse racing and various agricultural applications. The term "furlong" originates from an Old English term that means "furrow long," referring to the length of a plowed field. This unit's history can be traced back to the distances that farmers would plow before taking a break, thus integrating it into both agricultural practices and sporting events.

The Conversion and Equivalent Measurements

One furlong is equivalent to 220 yards or 1/8 of a mile. In the metric system, it measures approximately 201.17 meters. Understanding this conversion is crucial for anyone involved in activities that involve measuring distances, such as horse racing enthusiasts or agricultural planners. For example, a typical horse race may be measured in furlongs, which helps in determining the distance the horses need to traverse during the race.

Furlongs in Horse Racing

Furlongs are most commonly associated with horse racing. Races are often measured in this unit, with common distances being five furlongs, six furlongs, or more. This precise measurement plays a significant role in determining speed and performance statistics for horses. For fans and bettors, knowing how many furlongs a horse must run can influence their predictions and decisions significantly.

Additional Uses of Furlongs

While commonly associated with horse racing, the furlong also has applications in other areas. In agriculture, it can be used for measuring larger fields or plotting out land. Additionally, some historical texts and documentation reference furlongs in various ways that contribute to cultural and regional storytelling. These practices underscore how this unit of measurement has been woven into the fabric of society.

Why Furlongs Matter Today

Despite the dominant use of metric systems in many fields, furlongs maintain their importance, especially in certain sports and regional practices. This legacy reflects the blend of tradition and modernity. For anyone involved in horse racing or agricultural management, understanding the significance and usage of this unit remains critical. The continued relevance of furlongs reflects historical practices while adapting to current needs.

In conclusion, a furlong serves as more than just a unit of measurement. It embodies history, culture, and the continual evolution of how we perceive distance in both horse racing and agriculture. As we continue to engage with this unit, it remains essential to acknowledge its roots and applications in contemporary society.


Furlongs Examples

  1. The horse galloped three furlongs before reaching the finish line, showcasing its incredible speed and endurance.
  2. During the race, the jockey urged his mount forward, completing the final furlongs with determination.
  3. The local track measures its distances in furlongs, making it easy for spectators to understand the length of each race.
  4. She trained tirelessly, hoping to improve her time over the last furlongs of the marathon course.
  5. In equestrian sports, a furlong is often used as a standard measurement for races, typically equating to 1/8 of a mile.
  6. The trainer noted that his horse had a remarkable ability to sprint over the last few furlongs, often making up lost ground.
  7. Historical records indicate that in ancient times, travelers measured distances in furlongs when discussing agricultural land.
  8. The running club organized a race that challenges participants to complete multiple laps, each lap covering two furlongs.
  9. Furlongs are an essential unit of measure in thoroughbred racing, crucial for calculating speeds and race strategies.
  10. As the sprint approached the final furlongs, the atmosphere in the grandstand became electric with excitement.


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  • Updated 18/07/2024 - 18:23:56