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.
