Unhorse

To throw or dislodge a rider from a horse or other mount. This verb implies a forceful removal, often involving a fall or dismounting caused by the animal's actions or by external circumstances, such as a collision. The act can be literal, referring to a physical event, or figurative, describing the downfall or defeat of someone or something from a position of power, influence, or advantage. The term carries connotations of suddenness and a loss of control.

Unhorse meaning with examples

• The seasoned equestrian was unhorsed during the steeplechase, the horse stumbling on a hurdle and sending her tumbling onto the muddy ground. Despite the unexpected unhorsing, she quickly recovered, remounting to finish the race with a valiant effort.
• In a dramatic turn of events, the arrogant king was metaphorically unhorsed when the public discovered the truth about his cruel policies, stripping him of his support and plunging him into political turmoil.
• The unexpected jolt of the rollercoaster threatened to unhorse the screaming children, their laughter and fear echoing through the amusement park. Fortunately, the safety restraints held firmly, preventing a literal unhorsing.
• The sudden economic downturn unhorsed the company from its leading market position. They struggled with layoffs and plummeting revenues.
• During the medieval jousting tournament, the knight's opponent successfully unhorsed him with a well-aimed lance, sending the warrior sprawling into the dust.