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DictionaryspurIncentive
noun

spur

SPUR/spɜːr/

Something that encourages action or greater effort.

The offered trophy gives the tired runner a spur to keep going.

A prominently offered trophy serves as a visible incentive for a tired runner to make a final, strenuous push toward the finish.
Etymology
spura / sporaOld Englisha heel-mounted implement used to goad a horse

A heel spike used to goad a horse became anything that pushes someone toward action or effort.

More examples

  • Success provides a spur to further effort.
  • The deadline is a useful spur.

Forms

spur

Similar words

incentive
Something that encourages a particular action.
stimulus
A cause of increased activity or response.