26984 words

prop

11 definitions • 15 examples
1
to support something physically, often by leaning it against something else or putting something under it:

Examples:

prop something against something I propped my bike against the wall.
prop something up against something A wooden sign was propped up against the house.
be propped on Her head was propped on a pillow.
propped on She was sitting at the desk with her chin propped on her hands.
prop something open This window keeps on closing - I'll have to prop it open with something.
2
an object used by the actors performing in a play or film:

Examples:

The set is minimal and the only props used in the show are a table, a chair, and a glass of water.
3
informal for
4
an object that is used to support something by holding it up:

Examples:

I need some sort of a prop to keep the clothes line up.
social prop figurative A lot of people use cigarettes as a sort of social prop (= to make them feel more confident).
5
one of two rugby players in a team who play on each side at the front of the scrum (= a group of players from each team who come together with their heads down and arms joined, and push against each other to get control of the ball), are large and strong, and support the scrum, or this position in a team:

Examples:

The England prop has signed a new two-year contract to stay at the club.
He started his professional career as a prop forward.
6
respect for someone:

Examples:

I have to give her her props for being such a great athlete.
7
to support something by putting something else under or against it:

Examples:

She propped the door open with a footstool.
He was reading in bed, propped up by pillows.
8
fig. To prop up something/prop something up is to support something that would fail or become weaker without such help:

Examples:

[ M ] The US joined with other nations in a coordinated effort yesterday to prop up the value of the dollar.
9
an object that is used on a theater stage or in a movie:

Examples:

The only props used in the show are a table, a chair, and a glass of water.
10
an object used to support something or hold it in position
11
abbreviation for

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