hobble/ˈhɒbəl/EtymologyFrom Middle English hobblen, hobelen, akin to Middle Dutch hoblen, hobbelen (Modern Dutch hobbelen).hobble means one of the short straps tied between the legs of unfenced horses, allowing them to wander short distances but preventing them from running off. Lexicurio rates it Rare gem — a strength score of 78 out of 100.nounOne of the short straps tied between the legs of unfenced horses, allowing them to wander short distances but preventing them from running off.An unsteady, off-balance step.“We made it and we hobbled up the stairs. Or I hobbled. My sons didn't hobble, I hobbled.”A difficult situation; a scrape.“"Saddle a horse—any horse—only let him be sure and fleet," cried Ashwoode, "and I'll pay you his price thrice over!" "Well, it's a bargain," replied the groom, promptly; "I don't like to see a gentleman caught in a hobble, if I can help him out of it. […]”An odd job; a piece of casual work.verbTo fetter by tying the legs; to restrict (a horse) with hobbles.“Near-synonyms: shackle, enshackle”To walk lame, or unevenly.“The friar was hobbling the same way too.”To move or proceed roughly or irregularly.“The hobbling versification, the mean diction.”To disable; to impede.“Near-synonyms: nobble, hamper, hinder, embarrass”