Meaning & Definition of word "Spur"

Spur

/spɜːr/

noun:

  • 1. A pointed device worn on a rider's heel for urging a horse forward.
    • Example: The cowboy used his spur to encourage the horse to gallop faster.
  • 2. Something that encourages a person to take action or makes an event happen.
    • Example: The scholarship served as a spur for her to pursue higher education.

verb:

  • 1. To encourage or stimulate someone to take action.
    • Example: The coach's speech spurred the team to victory.
  • 2. To urge a horse forward with spurs.
    • Example: She spurred the horse to jump over the obstacle.

Etymology

Middle English spurre, from Old English spear (the point), of Germanic origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

spur of the moment:

An impulsive decision made without prior planning.

spur someone on:

To encourage someone to take action or to work harder.

Related Words

stimulate:

To encourage something to develop or increase.

encourage:

To give support, confidence, or hope to someone.

Slang Meanings of spur

Meaning: Spur someone on

Example Sentence: He really spurred me on to finish the project.

Meaning: Spur of the moment decision

Example Sentence: Going to the concert was a spur of the moment decision.