Dead Heat, In a
Definition
“Tied for first place.” The term originates from horse racing, where “heat” once described a race. Now, it encompasses any contest resulting in a tie.
Fascinating Fact
By the late eighteenth century, “dead heat” was common in the sporting world. For example: “The whole race was run head and head, terminating in a dead heat” (Sporting Magazine, 1796).
Related and Similar Terms
- Neck and Neck: Running or progressing side by side, in close competition.
- Photo Finish: A race so close that the winner can only be determined from a photograph taken at the finish line.
- Tie Game: A situation in sports where both teams have the same score, resulting in a draw.
Funny Quote
“The best photo finish? The one where I don’t break my camera!” – Anon.
Proverbs
“Even a snail will eventually reach its destination, albeit in a dead heat.”
Suggested Literature & Media
- Book: Seabiscuit: An American Legend by Laura Hillenbrand.
- Movie: Secretariat (2010) - The story of one of the greatest race horses in history.
- Song: Dead Heat by Siouxsie and the Banshees.
Inspirational Farewell
“Always run your race. But remember, a dead heat is just proof that greatness sometimes comes in pairs.”
### Which of these terms is related to "dead heat"?
- [x] Neck and neck
- [ ] Mile High Club
- [ ] Burning the midnight oil
- [ ] Holding a candle
> **Explanation:** "Neck and neck" is a term often used in racing, similar to "dead heat," indicating two competitors are extremely close.
### Identify the racing term:
- [ ] Dropping the hatchet
- [x] Photo finish
- [ ] Octopus on roller skates
- [ ] Selling like hotcakes
> **Explanation:** "Photo finish" refers to a race so close that the winner must be determined by a photograph at the finish line.
### True or False: "Dead heat" originated in chess.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** "Dead heat" originated in horse racing, not chess.
