prop up
phrasal verbpropped up; propping up; props up
Definition of prop up
1 : to stop (something) from falling or slipping by placing something under or against it
We propped up the beams with long boards. propped the plant stems up
2 : to give help, encouragement, or support to (someone)
His faith propped him up in times of crisis.
Comments on prop up
What made you want to look up prop up? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times
- What is an earlier meaning of nice?
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question challenge!
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridgedWords at Play
Ask the Editors
Word Games
- Slippery Words Quiz—Changing with the Times
Do you know these earlier meanings of words?
Take the quiz - Words of Snow and Ice Quiz
A selection of words from the chillier parts of t...
Take the quiz - Name That Thing
Test your visual vocabulary with our 10-question ...
Take the quiz - Word Winder's CrossWinder Play the game
Share prop up