Spur

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[编辑] 解释

I. noun

Etymology: Middle English spure, from Old English spura; akin to Old English spurnan to kick — more at spurn
Date: before 12th century
1.
- a. a pointed device secured to a rider's heel and used to urge on the horse
- b. plural \［from the acquisition of spurs by a person achieving knighthood\］ recognition and reward for achievement <won his academic spurs as the holder of a chair in a university — James Mountford>
2. a goad to action ; stimulus
3. something projecting like or suggesting a spur: as
- a. a projecting root or branch of a tree, shrub, or vine
- b.
  - (1) a stiff sharp spine (as on the wings or legs of a bird or insect); especially one on a cock's leg
  - (2) a gaff for a gamecock
- c. a hollow projecting appendage of a corolla or calyx (as in larkspur or columbine)
- d. a bony outgrowth (as on the heel of the foot)
- e. climbing iron
4.
- a. an angular projection, offshoot, or branch extending out beyond or away from a main body or formation; especially a ridge or lesser elevation that extends laterally from a mountain or mountain range
- b. a railroad track that branches off from a main line
5. a reinforcing buttress of masonry in a fortification
Synonyms: see motive

II. verb (spurred; spurring)

Date: 13th century
transitive verb
- 1. to urge (a horse) on with spurs
- 2. to incite to action or accelerated growth or development ; stimulate
- 3. to put spurs on
intransitive verb
- to spur one's horse on