First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1crutch
noun \ˈkrəch\
: a long stick with a padded piece at the top that fits under a person's arm
: something that a person uses too much for help or support
Full Definition of CRUTCH
1
2
: a forked leg rest constituting the pommel of a sidesaddle
3
: the crotch of a human being or an animal
4
: a forked support
See crutch defined for English-language learners
See crutch defined for kids
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Origin of CRUTCH
Middle English crucche, from Old English crycc; akin to Old High German krucka crutch
2crutch
verb
Definition of CRUTCH
transitive verb
: to support on crutches : prop up
First Known Use of CRUTCH
1609
CRUTCH[1] Defined for Kids
crutch
noun \ˈkrəch\
Definition of CRUTCH for Kids
1
: a long stick usually made with a piece at the top to fit under the armpit that is used as an aid in walking
2
: something that a person depends on to help deal with problems <The child uses his blanket as a crutch to feel more secure.>
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