stirrup

• Nom ayant deux sens distincts : anneau métallique servant d'appui au pied du cavalier sur un cheval, et petit os de l'oreille moyenne, en forme d'étrier, qui transmet les vibrations sonores.

A noun with two distinct meanings: a metal loop used as a foot support for a rider on a horse, and a small stirrup-shaped bone in the middle ear that transmits sound vibrations.

1. Riding equipmentB1formal

   A metal or leather loop that hangs from a saddle, used to support a rider's foot when mounting or riding a horse.

   Étrier (équitation)

   • He placed his foot in the stirrup and swung onto the horse.
   • The leather stirrup broke during the long ride.
   • She adjusted the stirrups to fit her leg length.

   Synonymesstirrup iron

2. Bone in the earC1formalmedical

   The smallest bone in the human body, located in the middle ear, shaped like a stirrup, which transmits sound vibrations from the incus to the inner ear.

   Étrier (os de l'oreille)

   • The stapes, also known as the stirrup, is essential for hearing.
   • Damage to the stirrup bone can cause hearing loss.
   • The surgeon repaired the stirrup bone during the operation.

   Synonymesstapes