n. & v.
n. 1 a framework of two poles with canvas etc. between, for carrying sick, injured, or dead persons in a lying position. 2 a brick or stone laid with its long side along the face of a wall (cf. HEADER). 3 a board in a boat against which a rower presses the feet. 4 a rod or bar as a tie between chair-legs etc. 5 a wooden frame over which a canvas is stretched ready for painting. 6 archaic sl. an exaggeration or lie.
v.tr. (often foll. by off) convey (a sick or injured person) on a stretcher. stretcher-bearer a person who helps to carry a stretcher, esp. in war or at a major accident.