What does "props" mean?

1. (theatre/film objects) the objects used by actors in a play or film, like a book, a glass, or a phone. 2. (respect and credit) respect or praise given to someone for doing something well. 3. (shouting respect) a word you say to show you respect what someone just did.

How do you use "props"?

Usually appears in the plural form and often follows the verb 'give'.

props

n. · interj.

US //ˈpɹɑps// UK //pɹˈɒps// props

1 theatre/film objects (n.)
B1 Intermediate Theatre

the objects used by actors in a play or film, like a book, a glass, or a phone.

the portable objects used on the set of a play or film to enhance the realism or action of a scene.

Example

The actors had to manage several small props during the dinner scene.

Example

The stage manager spent the afternoon cataloguing the historical props to ensure every letter and inkwell was period-accurate for the Victorian drama.
- accessories
- equipment
2 respect and credit (n.)
C1 Advanced Slang Informal

respect or praise given to someone for doing something well.

due respect, recognition, or credit for an achievement. Often used in the phrase 'give props to'.

Example

You have to give her props for finishing the race with a broken toe.

Example

While I disagree with his final decision, I have to give him props for the transparent way he handled the initial crisis.

Usage

Usually appears in the plural form and often follows the verb 'give'.
- disrespect
- criticism
3 shouting respect (interj.)
C1 Advanced Slang Informal

a word you say to show you respect what someone just did.

an exclamation used to signal respect or approval toward another person.

Example

Props to you for standing up to the boss like that.

Example

Props for getting that project finished ahead of schedule despite all the technical setbacks we faced this week.
- respect
- kudos

Origin

From proper, as in "proper respect" or "proper recognition".

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Last updated June 20, 2026