sawhorse
UK[ˈsɔːhɔːs]US[ˈsɑːhɔːrs]
n
a frame or rack for supporting wood that is being sawed.
Morpheme Breakdown
saw
horse
saw
tool for cutting
horse
animal
Etymology
the word 'sawhorse' is a transparent english compound from the 18th century, combining 'saw' and 'horse'. the term 'horse' has a long history in english of being used metaphorically for a supporting frame or stand, as seen in other terms like 'clotheshorse' or 'trestle horse'. this usage likely stems from the animal's role as a beast of burden and a sturdy, reliable support. thus, a 'sawhorse' is literally a sturdy support for a saw, providing a clear, logical image of its function from its component parts.
Analysis
Structure: saw (tool for cutting) + horse (animal)
'saw' (from old english 'sagu', a cutting tool); 'horse' (from old english 'hors', an animal). in this compound, 'horse' functions metaphorically to denote a supporting structure.
Examples
the carpenter placed the plank across two sawhorses before beginning to cut.
we need to set up the sawhorses in the driveway for the weekend project.
the old sawhorse was sturdy, with sawdust covering its legs.