Stirrup

Webster's Dictionary of the English Language

·vi A rope secured to a yard, with a thimble in its lower end for supporting a footrope.

II. Stirrup ·vi Any piece resembling in shape the stirrup of a saddle, and used as a support, clamp, ·etc. ·see Bridle iron.

III. Stirrup ·vi 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.