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Glite Dictionary
pitprop

pitprop

9.9
A wooden post that holds up the roof of a mine to stop it falling
  • noun
  • /ˈpɪtprɒp/
  • Archaic
translation icon : puntal
  • The workers installed a new pitprop to reinforce the weakened section of the tunnel.

Examples

  • Safety regulations require each pitprop to be checked regularly for damage.

  • After years underground, the old pitprop showed signs of decay and needed replacing.

  • The miner placed a pitprop under the roof.

  • Many pitprops were used in the old mine.

  • Safety regulations require each pitprop to be checked regularly for damage.

  • After years underground, the old pitprop showed signs of decay and needed replacing.

  • The workers installed a new pitprop to reinforce the weakened section of the tunnel.

Synonyms

sprag
vspitprop
  • Specialized
9.9

A wooden or metal support placed under the roof of a mine to stop it from falling

is specific to wooden supports rather than metal ones

Surface Forms

pitprop singular
pitprops plural

Morphology

pitprop = pit + prop (transparent) = pit + prop

The meaning is directly derived from the clear combination of 'pit' (mine) + 'prop' (support); a B1 learner knowing the components can infer the meaning.

Etymology

The word pitprop comes from pit meaning 'a mine' and prop meaning 'support'. It is a wooden support used in a mine to hold the roof up and stop it from falling.