Meanings
Originally an allusion to an unknown horse with a dark coat winning a race, as used in the 1831 novel The Young Duke by Benjamin Disraeli (1804–1881).[1]
How to pronounce "dark horse":
AU
Someone who possesses talents or favorable characteristics that are not known or expected by others.
A candidate for an election who is nominated unexpectedly, without previously having been discussed or considered as a likely choice.
A horse whose capabilities are not known.
Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see dark, horse.
Example Sentences
1
She was a dark horse in the race, surprising everyone with her incredible speed.
2
Nobody expected him to win the cooking competition, but he turned out to be a dark horse.
3
The new employee appeared to be quiet and unremarkable, but she proved to be a dark horse with exceptional skills.
4
The underdog team emerged as the dark horse of the tournament, defeating all the strong contenders.
5
Throughout the game, the dark horse gradually gained momentum and overtook the favored team.
