Main Entry: ¹spur

Pronunciation: \ˈspər\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English spure, from Old English spura; akin to Old English spurnan to kick — more at spurn

Date: before 12th century

1 a : a pointed device secured to a rider's heel and used to urge on the horse b plural [from the acquisition of spurs by a person achieving knighthood] : recognition and reward for achievement <won his academic spurs as the holder of a chair in a university — James Mountford>
2 : a goad to action : stimulus
3 : something projecting like or suggesting a spur: as a : a projecting root or branch of a tree, shrub, or vine b (1) : a stiff sharp spine (as on the wings or legs of a bird or insect); especially : one on a cock's leg (2) : a gaff for a gamecock c : a hollow projecting appendage of a corolla or calyx (as in larkspur or columbine) d : a bony outgrowth (as on the heel of the foot) e : climbing iron
4 a : an angular projection, offshoot, or branch extending out beyond or away from a main body or formation; especially : a ridge or lesser elevation that extends laterally from a mountain or mountain range b : a railroad track that branches off from a main line
5 : a reinforcing buttress of masonry in a fortification

synonyms see motive

— on the spur of the moment : on impulse : suddenly