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prop

n. · v.
US //ˈpɹɑp// UK //pɹˈɒp// prop
  1. 1 a physical support (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    an object used to hold something up or keep it in place.

    a physical object placed under or against another to provide structural support or stability.

    Example

    We used a thick wooden prop to keep the old shed door from falling over.

    Example

    The builders installed temporary steel props to support the ceiling while the main load-bearing wall was being replaced.
  2. 2 theatre or film item (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Theatre

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The production designer spent weeks sourcing authentic 1920s props to ensure the historical drama felt immersive and accurate.
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  1. 3 aircraft propeller (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal Technical

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    As the engine sputtered to life, the prop began to spin, creating a powerful wash of air across the grassy runway.
  2. 4 rugby position (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Sport

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

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

  3. 5 to lean or support (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

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

    Usage

    Often used as the phrasal verb 'prop up'.
  4. 6 plant cutting (n.)
    C1 Advanced Informal Technical Science

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The gardener carefully placed the props in a tray of moist sand to encourage root development over the winter months.
Etymology 1

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”).

Etymology 2

Clipping of property.

Etymology 3

Clipping of propeller.

Etymology 4

Clipping of proposition.

Etymology 5

Clipping of propagation.

Etymology 6

Clipping of testosterone propionate.

Idioms2 entries

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