- prop (n.1)
- "support," mid-15c., from Middle Dutch proppe "vine prop, support," of unknown origin. Probably related to Old High German pfropfo, German pfropfen "to prop," perhaps from Latin propago "a set, layer of a plant" (see propagation). Irish propa, Gaelic prop are from English.
- prop (n.2)
- "object used in a play," 1898, from props (1841), shortened form of properties (which was in theatrical use from early 15c.). Props as slang shortening for proper respects (or something similar) appeared c. 1999.
- prop (v.)
- "to support," mid-15c., probably from prop (n.1) or a related verb in Dutch. Related: Propped; propping.
- prop (n.3)
- short for propeller, 1914.
