Encouraged or motivated someone to do something; or equipped with spurs (sharp devices on a rider's heel).
From Old English 'spora' and German 'Sporn,' referring to the device worn on horseback; became a metaphor for motivation by the 1500s.
Spurs created a feedback loop in horse riding—a literal device that caused physical response—and became the perfect metaphor for how small actions trigger big reactions.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.