Synonyms for

Spur

Verb / spɜ: / Another word for spur — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A spur is a small pointed object that is attached to a rider's boot and is used to urge a horse to go faster.

Synonyms & similar words

gad spurring goad urging goading acantha prodding prod branchline spine spurtrack goad prod whip lash stimulus impetus incentive motivation encouragement urge prompting nudge poke jab tap push pressure inspiration instigation persuasion

Synonyms by register

Formal

stimulate incentivize provoke instigate

Informal

push prod motivate egg on

Literary

goad whip urge on

Antonyms

discourage deter restrain hinder inhibit suppress

Common collocations

  • spur innovation
  • spur growth
  • spur development
  • spur interest
  • spur action
  • spur the economy
  • spur debate

Word family

noun spur
verb spur
adjective spurred

Usage note

As a verb, 'spur' often implies a strong, sometimes sudden, impetus. It can be used for both positive (e.g., spur innovation) and negative (e.g., spur conflict) outcomes.

Example sentences

  1. The jockey used his spurs to make the horse run faster.
  2. She put on her spurs and mounted her horse.
  3. The cowboy's spurs jingled as he walked.
  4. Without his spurs, the rider couldn't make his horse move.
  5. The knight's spurs clanged against the stone floor.

Quotes

  • The spurs of the moment are often the source of our happiness.
  • Success is not a destination, but the road that you're on. Being successful means that you're working hard and walking your walk every day. You can only live your dream by working hard towards it. That's living your dream.
  • The old horse-snake spurts ahead because he knows the snake can't go sideways.

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