frog3

 
Pronunciation: /frɒɡ/

noun

  • an elastic horny pad growing in the sole of a horse’s hoof, helping to absorb the shock when the hoof hits the ground.
  • a raised or swollen area on a surface: a bulge or frog is formed on the front of the blade

Origin:

early 17th century: perhaps from frog1; perhaps also influenced by Italian forchetta or French fourchette (see frog2)