Pronunciation: [spˈɜː] (IPA) 
The word "spur" is spelled with four letters, but its pronunciation can be a bit tricky. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is /spɜːr/, which shows that the second sound is not an "oo" as in "tour", but rather an "er" as in "her". This is because the word is derived from the Old Norse "spori", which means "spike or spur". The consonant blend "sp" at the beginning of the word adds to its sharp, pointed meaning.
Spur (noun) is defined as a pointed device, typically with a small spike or wheel at the end, designed to be worn on the heels of boots or shoes. It is used for urging a horse to move forward or to change direction while riding. Spurs are made of metal and are attached to the boots or shoes of riders by a strap that holds the device in place.
In a figurative sense, spur (noun) refers to something that serves as a stimulus or incentive to prompt action or encourage progress. It can be a motivating factor, prompting one to act or propel forward. This usage often implies that the intention is to incite or catalyze an individual or group to achieve a specific goal or outcome.
Spur (verb) is the associated action or process of using or applying spurs. In the context of riding, it means to make a horse move faster or change direction by using the spurs. In a metaphorical sense, spur (verb) means to motivate, encourage, or push someone to take action or achieve something.
Overall, the term "spur" embodies the concept of a physical or metaphorical device that initiates or drives action, typically by adding momentum, encouraging progress, or inciting movement.
A horny outgrowth from the skin; a dull spine or projection from a bone; a small projection from any structure, calcar.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
• An instr. having a small wheel with sharp points, worn on the heels of boots, for inciting horses to further speed; any incitement or stimulus to increase effort; the sharp horny projection on a cock's leg; the largest and leading root of a tree; any projecting appendage of a flower or blossom having the appearance of a spur; anything standing out; a mountain branching from a range; anything resembling a spur.
• To incite or urge forwards with a spur; to urge to more vigorous action; to incite; to impel; to press forward.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "spur" has been derived from the Old English word "spura". This term can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic language, where it originated from the word "spuron", meaning "to kick" or "prick". Further tracing takes us to the Proto-Indo-European root "*spere-", which meant "to push" or "spike". Many Indo-European languages have similar words with related meanings, such as the Old Norse "spori" and the Middle Dutch "spore". The word "spur" itself has evolved over time to represent both the pointed instrument attached to the heel of a rider's boot and metaphorical meanings such as encouragement or motivation.
