spur definition

1. any sharply pointed projection
2. tubular extension at the base of the corolla in some flowers
3. a sharp prod fixed to a rider's heel and used to urge a horse onward
• examples: cowboys know not to squat with their spurs on
4. incite or stimulate
• examples: The Academy was formed to spur research
5. give heart or courage to
6. strike with a spur
7. goad with spurs
• examples: the rider spurred his horse
8. equip with spurs
• examples: spur horses