stirrup

/ˈstɜrəp/
noun
  1. A metal or leather loop that hangs from a horse's saddle, used to support a rider's foot.
    • He adjusted the stirrup length to fit his long legs before mounting.
    • The leather stirrup broke during the ride, so he had to stop and fix it.
    • She put her left foot into the stirrup and swung onto the horse.
  2. A small bone in the middle ear that transmits sound vibrations to the inner ear; also called the stapes.
    • The doctor explained how the stirrup works with the anvil and hammer bones.
    • The stirrup is the smallest bone in the human body.
    • Damage to the stirrup bone can cause hearing loss.
  3. A support or loop used in various contexts, such as in a car or on a piece of equipment, to hold or brace a foot.
    • He used a stirrup to keep his foot steady while operating the machine.
    • The boat had a stirrup on the side to help climbers step up.
    • The stirrup on the exercise bike was adjustable for different shoe sizes.
Synonyms