noun
stirrup
STIR-up/ˈstɪrəp/
A loop or U-shaped support.
A metal stirrup hangs from a leather strap on the saddle.
Etymology
The pieces mean “climbing rope”: a stirrup was originally a looped rope that helped a rider mount a horse. The name survives for the saddle’s hanging foot support.
In context
"Climb onto the saddle, woman," he commanded his hostage. "The woman tried but could not get her foot in the stirrup. It was too high."
More examples
- She puts her left foot in the stirrup and mounts.
- The patient rests her heels in the stirrups during the exam.
- Workers secure steel stirrups around reinforcing bars before pouring concrete.
Forms
stirrup · stirrups
Similar words
- footrest
- Supports the feet but need not have a looped shape.
- brace
- Reinforces a structure but need not be U-shaped.