What is "fiador"

n. 1 (South America) collar worn by a horse, immediately behind the head, to which a handle, strap, or rope may be attached 2 (North America) in some styles of halter and bridle worn by a horse, an optional part similar to a throatlatch

Fiador can refer to:

• Fiador (tack)
• Fiador knot

A fiador term of Spanish colonial origin referring to a hackamore component used principally in the Americas. In English-speaking North America, the fiador is known principally as a type of throatlatch used on the bosal-style hackamore. Its purpose is to stabilize a heavy noseband or bosal and prevent the bridle from shifting. It is not used for tying the horse.

A fiador-like design and fiador knot is also used under the jaw on some rope halters, usually ending in a loop to which a lead rope can be attached. This, however, is not an independent "fiador," nor generally labeled as such; it is simply an integral part of the halter itself.