spur

¹spur

noun \ˈspər\

Definition of SPUR

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

— on the spur of the moment

: on impulse : suddenly

Examples of SPUR

1. <the threat of losing its only sports franchise was the spur the city council needed to finally do something about the rising crime rate>
2. <a weak wall that might need a spur>

Origin of SPUR

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

First Known Use: before 12th century

Related to SPUR

Synonyms: boost, encouragement, goad, impetus, incentive, incitation, incitement, instigation, momentum, motivation, provocation, impulse, stimulant, stimulus, yeast

Antonyms: counterincentive, disincentive

Related Words: inducement, invitation; antecedent, cause, consideration, grounds, motive, occasion, reason; catalyst, catalyzer, fuel, spark

see all synonyms and antonyms

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See Synonym Discussion at motive

Other Equestrian Terms

canter, cantle, curry, farrier, hunter, paddock, router, skirt, tack

Rhymes with SPUR

birr, blur, burr, Burr, chirr, churr, cur, curr, err, fir, for, fur, her, knur, murre, myrrh, per, purr, shirr, sir, skirr, slur, stir, thir, whir, your