1. the parts of a horse’s or other hoofed animal’s leg between the fetlock and the hoof
Usage: anatomy; veterinary

Examples

• The veterinarian examined the horse’s pasterns for signs of injury.
• Strong pasterns are important for a horse’s soundness and performance.
• The mare had swelling in both front pasterns after the race.
• Proper hoof care includes regular inspection of the pasterns.
• The blacksmith noted that the pony’s pasterns were well-angled.
• Lameness in the pasterns can affect a horse’s gait significantly.