saddle

Concise Oxford English Dictionary © 2008 Oxford University Press:
saddle/ˈsadl/

▶noun

• 1 a seat with a raised ridge at the front and back, fastened on the back of a horse for riding.

• 2 a seat on a bicycle or motorcycle.

• 3 a low part of a ridge between two higher points or peaks.

• 4 a shaped support for a cable, pipe, or other object.

• 5 Mathematics a low region of a curve between two high points.

• 6 the lower part of the back in a mammal or fowl, especially when distinct in shape or marking.

• 7 a joint of meat consisting of the two loins.

▶verb

• 1 put a saddle on (a horse).

• 2 (usu. be saddled with) burden with an onerous responsibility or task.

• 3 (of a trainer) enter (a horse) for a race.

– phrases
in the saddle

• 1 on horseback.

• 2 in a position of control or responsibility.

– origin OE sadol, sadul, of Gmc origin.