Synonyms of spur

spur 1 of 2

verb

as in to stab

to urge or push forward with or as if with a pointed object

gently spurred the horse with his heels

Synonyms & Similar Words

• stab
• dig
• poke
• prod
• goad
• nudge
• punch
• knock
• propel
• bore
• jog
• drive
• drill
• jab
• chuck
• stick
• pierce
• perforate
• puncture
• prick
• hale

spur

2 of 2

noun

ˈspər 

1

as in impetus

something that arouses action or activity

the threat of losing its only sports franchise was the spur the city council needed to finally do something about the rising crime rate

Synonyms & Similar Words

• impetus
• incentive
• encouragement
• stimulus
• motivation
• boost
• momentum
• catalyst
• impulse
• goad
• stimulant
• instigation
• reason
• fuel
• provocation
• cause
• yeast
• shot in the arm
• incitement
• inducement
• incitation
• consideration
• invitation
• spark
• motive
• occasion
• grounds
• antecedent
• catalyzer

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• disincentive
• counterincentive

2

as in support

a structure that holds up or serves as a foundation for something else

a weak wall that might need a spur

Synonyms & Similar Words

• support
• shore
• reinforcement
• mount
• brace
• mounting
• prop
• pillar
• stay
• buttress
• foundation
• underpinning
• column
• crutch
• arch
• bracket
• truss
• stand
• shoring
• bolster
• pedestal
• cantilever
• peg
• stake
• frame
• bearing
• girder
• pilaster
• post
• strut
• base
• stanchion
• stilt

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun spur contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of spur are goad, impulse, incentive, inducement, and motive. While all these words mean "a stimulus to action," spur applies to a motive that stimulates the faculties or increases energy or ardor.

fear was a spur to action

In what contexts can goad take the place of spur?

While the synonyms goad and spur are close in meaning, goad suggests a motive that keeps one going against one's will or desire.

thought insecurity a goad to worker efficiency

When might impulse be a better fit than spur?

The meanings of impulse and spur largely overlap; however, impulse suggests a driving power arising from personal temperament or constitution.

buying on impulse

When could incentive be used to replace spur?

Although the words incentive and spur have much in common, incentive applies to an external influence (such as an expected reward) inciting to action.

a bonus was offered as an incentive

When can inducement be used instead of spur?

While in some cases nearly identical to spur, inducement suggests a motive prompted by the deliberate enticements or allurements of another.

offered a watch as an inducement to subscribe

Where would motive be a reasonable alternative to spur?

The words motive and spur can be used in similar contexts, but motive implies an emotion or desire operating on the will and causing it to act.

a motive for the crime

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of spur

Verb

Jenkins Reid’s novels have sold more than 24 million copies worldwide and spurred myriad film and television adaptations. — Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 24 Sep. 2026

But Trump’s decision to roll out the red carpet for Xi has spurred criticism from lawmakers in both parties and some White House allies. — Aamer Madhani, Chicago Tribune, 24 Sep. 2026

Noun

So, abruptly, we were shunted onto hospice care — the dead-end spur of the American medical system. — Kim Clark, CBS News, 13 Aug. 2026

Howl’s needy nature led to one of Ly’s favorite videos, another captured in the spur of the moment during a hectic packing session. — Pat Mueller, USA Today, 29 July 2026

Phrases Containing spur

• on the spur of the moment