prop

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   An object used by actors on a stage or film set.

   The fake sword was just a prop made of painted plastic.

2. 2
   noun

   An object used to support or hold something up.

   He slid a wooden prop under the sagging shelf.

3. 3
   verb

   To support or hold something up so it does not fall.

   Try using a book to prop up the wobbly table leg.

From Middle English proppe (“a prop, support, support for a vine or plant”), from Middle Dutch proppe (“support, support for a vine, stopper for a bottle”). Compare Middle Low German proppe (“plug, stopper”), German Pfropfen (“plug”), Danish prop (“plug, stopper”).

Topics