POSTILIONS Meaning and
Definition
-
Postilions refer to the individuals who historically served as mounted guides or coach drivers in charge of the leading horses in a team or carriage. The role of the postilion dates back to the era when horse-drawn carriages were the primary means of transportation.
The postilions were responsible for guiding the team of horses and directing their movements through the use of reins and specific signals. They were positioned on one of the lead horses, traditionally riding on its back or sitting on a small saddle. The postilion's position allowed for better visibility and control of the horses, as they were able to keep a close eye on the road ahead and maneuver through different terrains.
In addition to their navigational responsibilities, postilions were also accountable for maintaining the care and well-being of the horses under their guidance. They would ensure that the horses were properly fed, watered, and groomed, as well as attending to any necessary harness adjustments. Postilions often had a strong bond with the horses they worked with, as they spent the majority of their time in close proximity to them.
With the advent of steam-powered locomotion and advancements in transportation technology, the role of the postilion gradually faded into obscurity. Nonetheless, their contributions to the safe and efficient movement of carriages and their dedication to the well-being of the horses they drove remain an important part of transportation history.
Top Common Misspellings for POSTILIONS *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for POSTILIONS
Etymology of POSTILIONS
The word "postilions" dates back to the 17th century and is derived from the French word "postillon", which means a person who rides the left horse of the leaders or wheelers of a coach or carriage. The term "postillon" itself comes from the Old French word "postillon" or "postilloun", which indicated a runner or messenger who carried a post (pole or rod) before a carriage or rider as a signal. The Old French word "postillon" can be traced back to the Latin word "postillō", meaning "at a distance", which was derived from "post", meaning "after" or "behind". This term emphasizes the role of postilions in guiding and directing the carriage from the position behind the horses.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
