Propping: meaning, definitions and examples

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propping

[ˈprɒpɪŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

support

To support or keep something in a particular position by placing something underneath or against it.

Synonyms

brace, prop up, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
propping	Used when temporarily holding something up to prevent it from falling. Common in informal situations. He spent the afternoon propping up the broken fence with some old wood
support	A versatile word that implies providing assistance, strength, or holding something up in a variety of contexts, both physical and emotional. The beam was used to support the ceiling; Her friends all came to support her during her speech
prop up	Similar to 'propping,' but can also have a metaphorical use, such as providing temporary support to, often in the context of aiding something that is failing (sometimes negative). They had to prop up the company's finances with a loan
brace	Indicates a stronger support that often involves more than just holding up, but providing stabilization, frequently used in medical or engineering contexts. The doctor put a brace on her leg to support the broken bone

Examples of usage

He was propping up the fence with a stick.
She propped the door open with a rock.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

boost

To help or encourage something to succeed or increase.

Synonyms

boost, sustain, uphold.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
propping	Best used when referring to physically supporting something to prevent it from falling or collapsing. She was propping the door open with a chair. He needed help propping the ladder against the wall.
boost	Used when talking about increasing or improving something, often in terms of energy, confidence, or performance. Drinking coffee can give you an energy boost in the morning. His encouragement was a big boost to my confidence.
sustain	Commonly used when emphasizing maintaining or continuing something over a period of time, typically efforts, energy, or practices. It’s difficult to sustain such high levels of stress. The community's support helps to sustain local businesses.
uphold	Often used in formal contexts to refer to maintaining or defending laws, principles, or rights. The judge decided to uphold the previous ruling. Citizens must uphold the principles of democracy.

Examples of usage

The new tax cuts are propping up the economy.
She propped up his confidence with her kind words.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word has roots in Old English, derived from the word 'proppian', which means to support or brace.
It has connections to the Proto-Germanic term 'proppōną', indicating a historical significance of support and stability.
Languages like Dutch ('proppen') and German ('stopfen') reflect similar concepts of filling or supporting.

Practical Applications

In construction, propping is essential to ensure that temporary structures are safe during building.
This technique is also used in theater to stabilize set pieces, keeping the performance safe and visually appealing.
Car mechanics often use propping methods to hold up vehicle parts while repairs are made, ensuring safety.

Psychology

In psychology, the concept also extends to emotional support; people often prop each other up during tough times.
Supporting friends or family through difficult moments is a modern interpretation of propping, emphasizing the importance of community.
Propping is akin to the support structures we need in our lives to stay mentally and emotionally stable.

Art and Design

In art, propping can refer to the use of physical supports for sculptures or installations, granting them structure and balance.
Designers use propping to create visually stimulating displays, ensuring products are presented attractively without toppling over.
The idea of propping also appears in photography, where objects are strategically placed to create a balanced composition.

Education

In learning environments, teachers often 'prop up' students through positive reinforcement and encouragement.
The concept of scaffolding in education mirrors the idea of propping, where support is gradually removed as learners become more independent.
During projects, students might use propping techniques, like standing materials upright, to ensure their creations are stable.

Translations

Translations of the word "propping" in other languages:

🇵🇹 apoiando

🇮🇳 समर्थन करना

🇩🇪 stützen

🇮🇩 menyangga

🇺🇦 підтримка

🇵🇱 podpieranie

🇯🇵 支える (sasaeru)

🇫🇷 soutenir

🇪🇸 apoyando

🇹🇷 destekleme

🇰🇷 지지하기 (jijihagi)

🇸🇦 دعم

🇨🇿 podpírání

🇸🇰 podopieranie

🇨🇳 支撑 (zhīchēng)

🇸🇮 podpiranje

🇮🇸 styðja

🇰🇿 қолдау

🇬🇪 მხარდაჭერა

🇦🇿 dəstəkləmək

🇲🇽 apoyando

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #27,257, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

...
27254 wingless
27255 panicky
27256 autochthonous
27257 propping
27258 foamed
27259 conjuncture
27260 intermarried
...