stirrup

noun

• 1each of a pair of devices attached to each side of a horse’s saddle, in the form of a loop with a flat base to support the rider’s foot.

• 2 (stirrups) a pair of metal supports in which a woman’s heels may be placed during gynecological examinations and childbirth, to hold her legs in a position that will facilitate medical examination or intervention.

• 3 (also stirrup bone)another term for stapes.

• 4 (stirrups)short for stirrup pants.