stirrup

[ˈstɪrəp]

stirrup Definition

• 1. a loop of leather or rope which hangs from the side of a horse's saddle and is used as a support for the rider's foot when mounted
• 2. a metal support for the foot in gymnastics and skiing
• 3. a U-shaped metal bar with a stirrup-shaped opening at each end, used as a foothold by climbers

Using stirrup: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "stirrup" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  She put her foot in the stirrup and swung herself onto the horse.

• Example

  The skier adjusted his stirrups before heading down the slope.

• Example

  The climber secured his foot in the stirrup and began to ascend the rock face.

stirrup Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for stirrup

• footrest
• foot support
• foot strap

Phrases with stirrup

• stirrup pants

  a style of pants that are fitted at the ankle and have a stirrup-shaped loop that goes under the foot to keep the pants from riding up

  Example

  In the 80s, stirrup pants were a popular fashion trend.

• stirrup iron

  the metal part of a stirrup that supports the rider's foot

  Example

  The stirrup iron was polished to a shine before the competition.

• stirrup cup

  a drink offered to someone who is about to leave, especially on horseback

  Example

  The host offered us a stirrup cup before we set off on our ride.

Origins of stirrup

from Old English 'stigrap', meaning 'climbing-rope'

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Summary: stirrup in Brief

A 'stirrup' [ˈstɪrəp] is a loop of leather or rope used as a foot support for horseback riders. It can also refer to metal supports for feet in gymnastics and skiing, or a U-shaped metal bar used as a foothold by climbers. Examples include 'She put her foot in the stirrup and swung herself onto the horse.' and 'The skier adjusted his stirrups before heading down the slope.'