SPUR | Definition and Meaning

Definition of Spur

Spur

Definition/Meaning

(noun)

A small device attached to a rider's heel to urge a horse forward.

e.g. The cowboy used a spur to encourage his horse to gallop faster.

(verb)

to urge or drive a horse forward, typically using spiked/pointed attachment to one's boots;

e.g. The rider tried to spur his horse forward so that he would win the race.

(verb)

to trim a shoot of a plant in a way that forms a short shoot that bears fruit on the side of the plant;

e.g. The gardener began to spur the branches of the bushes.

(noun)

a device that consists of a small wheel with spikes/points that is attached to a horse rider's heel and used to urge a horse forward;

e.g. The rider dug a spur into the horse's side to make it run faster.

(noun)

something that acts/functions as a stimulus or incentive to prompt or encourage some action, especially some reward or recognition for a particular action;

e.g. The prestige of the position was a spur for all of them to present as competitive candidates.

(noun)

some structure that is projecting from a surface, such as a ridge or some other rocky form on a mountain range, a short road or railway line that branches off a main line, a stiff spine found on the wings or legs of birds or insects, or a short pointed structure found on some part of the body (especially the bones);

e.g. They stood at the top of the spur and looked out over the valley.

(noun)

a section of masonry, such as a buttress on a fortification, that reinforces the structure;

e.g. Any damage to the spur will weaken the entire wall.