Spur
volume
British pronunciation/spˈɜː/
American pronunciation/ˈspɝ/

Definition & Meaning of "spur"

Spur
01

a pointed extension of bone that grows from the leg or foot and is used for defense, mating rituals, or establishing dominance within a social group

spur definition and meaning

What is a "spur"?

A spur is a bony projection found on the legs or wings of certain birds, particularly in roosters and some species of birds of prey. It is a specialized structure that serves various purposes depending on the species. In roosters, spurs are located on the lower leg and are used as a weapon during territorial disputes or when defending against predators. They can be sharp and pointed, capable of inflicting injury. In birds of prey, such as hawks and eagles, spurs are typically found on the wings and are used for gripping and maneuvering during flight.

02

a verbalization that encourages you to attempt something

03

a small metal tool worn on the rider's heel that is used to give subtle commands to a horse

What is a "spur"?

A spur is a small metal tool worn on the heel of a rider's boot to help communicate with the horse. It has a rounded or blunt end with a small wheel or knob that makes contact with the horse's side. When the rider presses the spur against the horse, it encourages the horse to move forward or respond to commands. Spurring should be done gently to avoid hurting the horse, and it is often used in disciplines like dressage, jumping, or racing to provide more precise guidance.

example
Example
click on words
The spur's gentle pressure reminded the horse to maintain a steady pace.
Every equestrian must use spurs with care and skill to avoid discomfort for the horse.
The young rider 's spurs had rounded ends to provide gentle encouragement to her pony.
04

a short railway track branching off from a main line, typically leading to a specific facility

What is a "spur"?

A spur is a short section of track that branches off from a main railway line, typically used to connect to specific locations, such as factories, warehouses, or mines. It allows trains to reach places that are not directly on the main track. Spurs are often shorter than regular tracks and are used to deliver or pick up goods in areas where regular train service is not available. These tracks can be found in industrial areas or along less-traveled parts of a railway network, helping to support local transportation needs.

example
Example
click on words
The spur led directly to the factory for easy shipment of goods.
He followed the spur to reach the warehouse.
They constructed a new spur to access the industrial park.
05

tubular extension at the base of the corolla in some flowers

06

any sharply pointed projection

to spur
01

to give someone encouragement or motivation

Ditransitive: to spur sb to do sth
to spur definition and meaning
example
Example
click on words
The coach 's inspiring words were meant to spur the team to give their best effort.
Recognition for hard work can spur employees to continue putting in their best.
Last week, they spurred each other to achieve their fitness goals.
02

to encourage or stimulate an action

Transitive: to spur an action or interest
example
Example
click on words
The exciting discovery spurred further research in the field of science.
The new policy was designed to spur innovation in the tech industry.
The awards ceremony was meant to spur further achievements in the field.
03

to urge a horse forward by pressing spurs into its sides

Transitive: to spur a horse
example
Example
click on words
She spurred the horse with gentle pressure to encourage it to jump the obstacle.
The cowboy spurred his horse to catch up with the herd.
She spurred the animal with a firm touch to get it moving after a break.
04

to attach spurs to a horse rider's boots in preparation for riding

Transitive: to spur shoes
example
Example
click on words
The cowboy spurred his boots before heading out to round up the cattle.
She spurred her shoes with custom-made spurs for the horse competition.
The rider spurred his boots to prepare for the race.
LanGeek
Download LanGeek app
langeek application

Download Mobile App

stars

app store