crutch

4 definitions • 5 examples

a stick with a handle and a part that fits around your lower arm, or a stick with piece that fits under the arm, that you lean on for support if you have difficulty in walking because of a foot or leg injury:

on crutches Martin broke his leg and has been on crutches for the past six weeks.

Anna uses crutches and sometimes a wheelchair.

something that provides help and support and that you depend on, often too much:

Humour can be a crutch for shy people.

I would never use my illness as a crutch or an excuse.

another spelling of

a stick with a piece that fits under or around the arm which someone who is having difficulty walking leans on for support:

Marty was on crutches for six weeks when he broke his leg.