prop 1
/prop/ , v. , propped, propping , n.
v.t.
1. to support, or prevent from falling, with or as if with a prop (often fol. by up ): to prop an old fence; to prop up an unpopular government.
2. to rest (a thing) against a support: He propped his cane against the wall.
3. to support or sustain (often fol. by up ).
n.
4. a stick, rod, pole, beam, or other rigid support.
5. a person or thing serving as a support or stay: His father is his financial prop.
[ 1400-50; late ME proppe (n.); c. MD proppe bottle stopper ]
Syn. 1. brace, buttress, bolster.
prop 2
— propless , adj.
/prop/ , n. Theat.
property (def. 8).
[ 1910-15; by shortening ]
prop 3
/prop/ , n.
a propeller.
[ 1910-15; by shortening ]