props

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prop

A prop is an object used to help create or support something, especially in theater, film, or photography. You might see a fake wall or a mannequin that's a prop.

In everyday life and creative projects, people use props all the time to make things more interesting or believable. For example, you could be making a movie at home with friends – one person is acting as a police officer and needs a real badge to look convincing, so they borrow a fake one from the costume box that's also used for plays or Halloween costumes. In theater, actors often use props to enhance their characters' personalities or to make scenes more realistic. If you're taking photos of a product or service, like a car or a restaurant, you might see props like flowers or decorative objects in the background to create a nice atmosphere.

Definitions

noun

An object placed against or under another, to support it; anything that supports.
Example: They stuck a block of wood under it as a prop.
The player on either side of the hooker in a scrum.
One of the seashells in the game of props.

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verb

(sometimes figurative) To support or shore up something.
Example: Try using a phone book to prop up the table where the foot is missing.
To play rugby in the prop position
(usually with "up" - see prop up) To position the feet of (a person) while sitting, lying down, or reclining so that the knees are elevated at a higher level.

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noun

An item placed on a stage or set to create a scene or scenario in which actors perform.
Example: They used the trophy as a prop in the movie.
An item placed within an advertisement in order to suggest a style of living etc.

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noun

The propeller of an aircraft.

verb

To manually start the engine of a propeller-driven aircraft with no electric starter by pulling vigorously on one of the propeller blades using the hands, so that the propeller can catch ignition.