Spur Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
spur
[spษหr ]
Definitions
on a horse
a device with a small spike or a spiked wheel that is worn on a rider's heel and used to urge a horse forward
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| spur |
This duplicate of 'spur' shares the same meaning and context as the first instance.
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| goad |
Goad implies a more forceful encouragement, often with an emphasis on provoking someone into action. It generally has a slightly negative connotation.
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| prod |
Prod is used to describe gentle encouragement or urging. It can also mean a physical poke to get someoneโs attention or action.
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| stimulus |
Stimulus refers specifically to something that causes a reaction or increased activity, often used in scientific or economic contexts.
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Examples of usage
- He used his spurs to make the horse go faster.
- The cowboy wore spurs on his boots.
motivation
something that encourages or prompts action, a stimulus
Synonyms
encouragement, impetus, incentive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| spur |
Same as the first entry. |
| incentive |
Used when referring to something that motivates or encourages someone to do something, often in a financial, business, or economic context.
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| impetus |
Refers to a force or influence that makes something happen or happen more quickly. This word is often used in more formal or academic settings.
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| encouragement |
Used when someone is offering support, confidence or hope to someone else. This word is often found in personal, educational, or professional contexts where emotional or moral support is provided.
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Examples of usage
- The fear of failure was a spur for her to work harder.
- The bonus provided an extra spur for the employees to meet their targets.
encourage
to urge or encourage someone to do something
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| spur |
Used to describe urging someone to take action quickly or with intensity. It can imply a sense of urgency or force.
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| motivate |
Pertains to giving someone a reason or incentive to do something, often related to personal or professional goals.
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| prompt |
Typically refers to causing someone to take action quickly, often used in situations requiring immediate attention or reminding.
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| encourage |
Applied when providing support, confidence, or hope to someone in a gentle or positive way.
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Examples of usage
- I was spurred on by his words to pursue my dreams.
- The coach spurred the team to victory.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Context
- Knights in the medieval period wore spurs as a symbol of their status and skill in horseback riding.
- In the American West, cowboys used spurs as an essential part of their gear to control their horses effectively.
- Spurs have also become a cultural icon in music, particularly in country and rodeo genres, symbolizing adventure and freedom.
Psychology
- In motivational psychology, a 'spur' can refer to an external factor that encourages someone to take action.
- Setting goals often includes finding spurs that push people to achieve their potential.
- Spurring motivation is essential for effective learning and personal growth, acting as a catalyst for change.
Sports
- In sports, the term 'spur' is often used to describe strategies or tactics that drive teams or athletes to perform better.
- Coaches often inspire athletes with motivational tools or 'spurs' to enhance performance during challenging games.
- The word also describes the fast-paced kick or movement in some sports, akin to quick bursts of energy.
Literature
- In literature, spurs symbolize motivation, often representing the call to adventure or a turning point in a character's journey.
- Authors use spurring moments to create tension and drive plots forward, as characters respond to challenges.
- The metaphor of 'spurring' is commonly found in poetry and prose, symbolizing inspiration or a push to pursue dreams.
Origin of 'spur'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Old English 'spear,' which referred to a sharp tool or object.
- In Middle English, it was used to describe a metal object used for riding horses to make them gallop faster.
- Spurs have been used for centuries, dating back to at least the Roman Empire when they were made of iron.
The word 'spur' originated from the Old English word 'spora' which means 'spur, motive'. It has been used since the 13th century to refer to the spiked device worn by horse riders. Over time, it has also come to symbolize something that encourages or prompts action, serving as a metaphorical spur to drive individuals forward.