What term describes a horse's overall body structure?

The term that describes a horse's overall body structure is conformation. This concept encompasses the horse's physical attributes, including the shape and arrangement of its bones, muscles, and joints, which collectively influence its athletic ability, soundness, and suitability for specific disciplines.

Conformation is crucial because it affects how a horse moves and performs. For instance, a horse with well-balanced conformation will typically have a better stride and be less prone to injuries. Evaluating conformation involves assessing traits such as neck length, angulation of the shoulder, body depth, and hip structure, which are critical for determining a horse's potential in various equestrian activities.

Other terms like posture, frame, and structure do relate to a horse's physical appearance and build but do not capture the comprehensive assessment that conformation offers. Posture refers more to how a horse holds itself or its position while standing or moving. Frame can describe the skeletal aspect but is not as widely used in assessing overall body structure as conformation. Structure may refer to the arrangement of specific anatomical parts but lacks the broader implications of conformation concerning overall athleticism and suitability.