spur

[[t]spɜr[/t]]

n. v. spurred, spur•ring

1) aU-shaped device fitted with a pointed projection, secured to the heel of a boot, and used by a rider to urge a horse forward

2) something that goads to action

3) climbing iron

4) orn a stiff, usu. sharp, horny process on the leg of various birds, esp. the domestic rooster, or on the bend of the wing, as in jacanas and screamers

5) pat an abnormal bony growth or projection

6) spo a gaff fastened to the leg of a gamecock

7) geo a ridge or line of elevation projecting from or subordinate to the main body of a mountain or mountain range

8) a short or stunted branch or shoot, as of a tree

9)

a) bot a slender, usu. hollow projection from some part of a flower

b) bot a short shoot bearing flowers

10) archit.

a) a short wooden brace for strengthening a post or other part

b) any offset from a wall, as a buttress

11) rai a short branch track leading from the main track

12) to prick with or as if with a spur or spurs; incite or urge on

13) to furnish with spurs or a spur

14) to goad or urge one's horse with spurs

15) to proceed hurriedly; press forward

•

- on the spur of the moment win one's spurs

Etymology: bef. 900; OE spura, c. OOHG sporo, ON spori spur; akin to spurn