ride tall in the saddle

ride tall in the saddle

1. (of a person) To ride a horse in an erect, imposing manner.
2. (idiomatic, by extension) To act or conduct oneself in a manner that is imposing, impressive, resolute, or manly.
   • 2008 February 27, "Conservative Author Buckley Dead at 82," Associated Press:

     His son noted Buckley had died "with his boots on, after a lifetime of riding pretty tall in the saddle."

• in the saddle

• ride high