prop
1
3.3
- noun
- /prɑp/
- The construction worker placed a wooden prop under the beam to stabilize it.
Examples
-
To support the old monument, they used a sturdy metal prop at its base.
-
You think we can straighten that prop?
-
But at that particular moment, a prop was exactly what Matt needed.
Fiction book (2002) -
At the same time, the prop functions to keep color an active player within the relatively subdued design.
Academic text (1998) -
The fins could have served as props for the body.
Academic text (2006) -
Firemen are working to secure it and what is left of the floor with metal props and hydraulic jacks.
Fiction book (1993) -
During the performance, the actor accidentally knocked over the prop that was meant to mimic a tree.
Synonyms
264
2.5
A piece of furniture that holds or shows things
57
1.4
A thing that holds or supports other objects, like a pen stand
35
3.3
A stand with three legs that holds things like a camera or cooking pot steady
18
4.1
A device or material that keeps something steady, for example a tripod
4
4.0
A part that holds something and keeps it upright, like columns or a skeleton
2
6.7
A support added to a frame to keep it steady
1
8.2
A padded layer placed under something to protect it
A temporary steel support that holds a roof when sliding tubes rub together
A steel support post that slides to reduce pressure from the ground in mines or tunnels
Compounds
- Offensive
1
9.8
An insulting name for the 2008 California vote that opposed same-sex marriage
- Specialized
1
6.8
A plane with an engine that turns two propellers in opposite directions to make it more stable
- Specialized
1
7.5
A part of a plant that grows from the stem above ground and holds the plant in place
- Specialized
A temporary steel support that holds a roof when sliding tubes rub together
- Specialized
A steel support post that slides to reduce pressure from the ground in mines or tunnels
- Specialized
A steel support used in mines or tunnels that lets parts slide to take pressure safely
How Supportive
Surface Forms
Etymology
Prop (noun, support) comes from the same old word for 'support' or a 'stick to hold things up'. That's why a prop is an object put under or against something to keep it steady.