noun / verb
prop
A support that holds something in position, or the act of providing one.
A wooden prop holds the damaged ceiling in place.
Etymology
The support noun underlies the supporting verb. Its deeper origin is uncertain; props meaning theatrical properties is a separate shortening.
More examples
- He propped the ladder against the wall.
- Pillows propped her injured arm at a comfortable angle.
- They added another prop beneath the sagging beam.
Forms
prop · props · propped · propping