stirrup Meaning, Definition & Usage

noun support consisting of metal loops into which rider's feet go
stirrup iron.
noun the stirrup-shaped ossicle that transmits sound from the incus to the cochlea
stapes.

OE. stirop, AS. stigrap; stigan to mount, ascend + rap a rope; akin to G. stegreif a stirrup. *164. See Sty, v. i., and Rope.

A kind of ring, or bent piece of metal, wood, leather, or the like, horizontal in one part for receiving the foot of a rider, and attached by a strap to the saddle, -- used to assist a person in mounting a horse, and to enable him to sit steadily in riding, as well as to relieve him by supporting a part of the weight of the body.
Our host upon his stirpoes stood anon. Chaucer.
(Carp. & Mach.) Any piece resembling in shape the stirrup of a saddle, and used as a support, clamp, etc. See Bridle iron.
(Naut.) A rope secured to a yard, with a thimble in its lower end for supporting a footrope. Totten.