prop

Universal Words noun, verb noun 1 a piece of wood, metal, etc. used to support sth or keep it in position: Rescuers used props to stop the roof of the tunnel collapsing. * a pit prop (= one used in a coal mine) 2 a person or thing that gives help or support to sb/sth that is weak: After being the emotional prop he needed for so long, she dared not leave him. 3 [usuallypl.] a small object used by actors during the performance of a play or in a film/movie: He is responsible for all the stage props and lighting. 4 (also prop forward) (in rugby) a player on either side of the front row of a SCRUM verb (-pp-) ~ sth/sb (up) (against sth) to support an object by leaning it against sth, or putting sth under it etc.; to support a person in the same way: [VN, +adv./prep.] He propped his bike against the wall. * She propped herself up on one elbow. * He lay propped against the pillows. * [VN-ADJ] The door was propped open. PHRASALVERBS prop sth<->up 1 to prevent sth from falling by putting sth under it to support it: They had to prop up the tree with long poles under the branches. 2 (often disapproving) to help sth that is having difficulties: The government was accused of propping up declining industries.