Dark horse meaning

A dark horse is a little-known competitor who unexpectedly wins a competition or succeeds against all odds.


Dark horse definitions

Word backwards krad esroh
Part of speech The word "dark horse" can function as a noun.
Syllabic division dark horse = dark horse
Plural The plural of dark horse is dark horses.
Total letters 9
Vogais (3) a,o,e
Consonants (5) d,r,k,h,s

When it comes to discussing underdogs in various contexts, the term "dark horse" often emerges. A dark horse is a competitor or candidate that is not widely favored to win but could surprise everyone with an unexpected victory. This term is commonly used in sports, politics, and other areas where competition and unpredictability play a significant role.

Origin of the Term

The origin of the term "dark horse" can be traced back to the 19th century in politics. It is believed to have been first used in the context of horse racing, where a dark horse was a horse with unknown qualities that unexpectedly won a race. Over time, the term found its way into everyday language to describe a little-known competitor who rises to prominence.

Characteristics of a Dark Horse

A dark horse is generally characterized by being underrated, overlooked, or underestimated by others. They may lack popularity, experience, or resources compared to other competitors, but they possess hidden potential, skills, or strategies that give them an edge. Dark horses often work diligently behind the scenes, away from the spotlight, before making their mark.

Examples of Dark Horses

Throughout history, numerous examples of dark horses have emerged in various fields. In sports, teams or athletes that were not considered strong contenders have surprised everyone by beating more favored opponents. In politics, unexpected candidates have come out of nowhere to win elections against well-established figures. These instances of dark horses captivate and inspire people with their unlikely triumphs.

In essence, a dark horse represents the underdog that defies the odds and achieves success against all expectations. They embody the perseverance, resilience, and determination to overcome obstacles and prove their worth. The allure of a dark horse lies in their ability to challenge the status quo and disrupt existing narratives, reminding us that greatness can come from the most unexpected places.


Dark horse Examples

  1. The dark horse candidate surprised everyone by winning the election.
  2. She's always been a dark horse at work, quietly excelling in her projects.
  3. The underdog team turned out to be the dark horse of the tournament.
  4. He may seem unassuming, but don't underestimate him – he's a dark horse in this competition.
  5. The dark horse of the movie turned out to be the supporting actor who stole the show.
  6. She had been practicing in secret, emerging as the dark horse of the dance competition.
  7. The dark horse investor quietly built a fortune with strategic investments.
  8. The unknown author became a dark horse sensation with her debut novel.
  9. The quiet student surprised everyone by being the dark horse of the debate team.
  10. The dark horse of the car race ended up crossing the finish line first.


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  • Updated 26/03/2024 - 14:34:42