What does prop mean?
A prop is, in its most literal sense, an object that supports or steadies something else. The word also refers to the furniture, costumes, and other items used to create a setting on stage or in a film. In a more specialized sporting sense, a rugby union prop is one of the players who supports the scrum. As a verb, “to prop” means to hold something up or support it, frequently in a temporary or precarious way. People may prop a door open with a book, or say that financial support has helped prop up a struggling company. The theatrical sense is especially vivid because a prop is any physical object that helps make an imagined scene believable. The word is also used more broadly for a proposition or issue, particularly in business and political discussion, although this usage is less dominant than the everyday and theatrical senses.
An object used to support, steady, or hold up another object; also, an item used as part of a stage, film, or television setting.
"The theatre company stores its props between performances."
In sport, especially rugby union, a prop is a player in the front row of a scrum.
To support or hold something up, especially temporarily or precariously.
"They propped up the unstable shelf with a stack of books."
Figuratively, it can mean to provide short-term support to a person, institution, economy, or argument.
The plural form is used for multiple supporting objects or theatrical items. In rugby, “props” refers to the two players who support the scrum.
"The crew arranged all the props on the stage."
A single stage prop can transform a scene: a convincing table, door, or telephone may matter more to the audience than the actor holding it.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of prop
The word developed in Middle English in the sense of a support or post and is generally associated with Germanic origins. Its modern theatrical meaning—any object used in a performance—developed later from the idea of an object that helps establish or support a scene. The verb continued the older sense of holding something up and eventually acquired the figurative meaning of providing temporary support to an institution, argument, or financial condition.
Related word forms
How prop is actually used
The noun is common in general English for a support and especially in theatre, film, and television contexts. The verb often implies temporary or inadequate support, as in “propping up” a weak structure or financially troubled organization. In rugby union, “prop” has a specialized sporting meaning.