stirrup

A flat-based loop or ring hung from either side of a horse’s saddle to support the rider’s foot in mounting and riding; a stirrup iron.

A part or device shaped like an inverted U in which something is supported, held, or fixed.

A rope on a ship that hangs from a yard and has an eye at the end through which a footrope is passed for support.

A support for the foot of a person mounted on a horse, usually a metal loop with the bottom part flat and corrugated or finished with points to give a hold to the sole of the boot and to aid in mounting.

Nautical, a rope with an eye at its end, through which a foot-rope is rove, and by which it is supported.

In machinery, any piece resembling in shape and functions the stirrup of a saddle, as the iron loop by which a mill-saw hangs from the muley-head or in the sash.

In carpentry, etc., an iron loop-strap or other device for securing a rafter-post or -strut to a tie, or for supporting a beam, etc.

A hold for the foot at the end of the stock of a large crossbow, to keep it firm while the bow is bent and the string drawn to the notch. See cut under arbalister.

In anatomy, the stapes or stirrup-bone.