prop

B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Theater

n. an object used by actors during a play or movie to make the scene look real.

n. any portable object used on the set of a play or film to further the action or establish a setting.

“The actor forgot his prop, so he had to pretend he was holding a phone.”

“The production designer spent weeks sourcing authentic 1920s props to ensure the historical drama felt immersive and accurate.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Informal · Technical

n. a short name for a propeller on a plane or boat.

n. a common clipping of 'propeller', referring to the rotating blades that provide thrust.

Español:hélice

“The pilot checked the prop for any cracks before taking off.”

“As the engine sputtered to life, the prop began to spin, creating a powerful wash of air across the grassy runway.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Sports

n. a strong player in a rugby team who stays at the front of a 'scrum'.

n. a player positioned on either side of the hooker in the front row of a rugby scrum.

Español:pilar

“The team's prop is incredibly strong and helps win every scrum.”

“The coach decided to substitute the starting prop in the second half to bring more explosive power to the front row.”

B1 · Intermediate

v. to lean something against a wall or use an object to hold it up.

v. to support something by placing it against a surface or on a support; often used with 'up'.

“He used a heavy book to prop the window open and let in some fresh air.”

“She propped her bicycle against the weathered brick wall and went inside the café to meet her friend.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Science Informal · Technical

n. a small piece of a plant used to grow a new one.

n. a clipping of 'propagule' or 'propagation', referring to a plant part used for multiplication.

“I took a few props from my succulent to give to my neighbors.”

“The gardener carefully placed the props in a tray of moist sand to encourage root development over the winter months.”