amble
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈæmbəl/
US
- /ˈæmbəl/
Description
- walk at a leisurely pace
- stroll
- wander
Imagine an afternoon sun warming your skin as you amble through a park—not rushing, not hurrying, just enjoying the gentle rhythm of walking. To amble is to walk at a relaxed and unhurried pace, often without a specific destination in mind. It's less about getting somewhere and more about savoring the journey. A horse might amble across a field, or you might amble along a beach collecting seashells. Think of it as a gentle, meandering walk, perfect for clearing your head or enjoying the scenery.
To amble means to walk at a slow, relaxed pace, often in a leisurely and unconcerned manner. It suggests a comfortable, easygoing movement without urgency or purpose. The word evokes images of peaceful strolls and gentle wandering. Think of an old cowboy ambling into town, or a tourist ambling through ancient ruins—they aren't rushing to get anywhere; they are taking their time to experience the moment.
The word "amble" comes from the Old French ambler, meaning "to go at an amble." In everyday English, it describes a human-style stroll. In more specialized, equestrian contexts, an amble can also refer to a smooth, easy gait of a horse.
You can use "amble" as a verb: "We ambled along the riverbank, enjoying the sunset." Or you can describe something as an amble: "Their journey was a slow amble through the countryside." It is frequently used to create a sense of calm and tranquility in writing.
While rarely used in urgent or strictly business contexts, "amble" adds a touch of charm and imagery when describing movement. So next time you find yourself walking without a care in the world, remember—you are ambling!
Examples
- 1
Beach walk
We ambled along the beach until the sun went down.
- 2
Sightseeing
A few tourists were ambling through the old town, stopping to look in shop windows.
- 3
Casual approach
He ambled over to our table and asked if the seat was free.
- 4
Leisure walk
After breakfast, we went for an amble around the lake.
Phrase
go for an amble
take a slow, easy walk
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- ambleverbnoun
Forms
- ambling-ing formverbnoun
- ambledpast tenseverbnoun
- amblesverbnoun