Find Antonyms

spur Antonyms

Opposite of spur

Because the opposite of spur shifts with each meaning, the 19 antonyms and opposite words below are separated across 3 exact definitions and ranked by contrast strength.
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• verb (Context 1)

To give an incentive or encouragement to someone, or to promote the development and progress of something.

Usage Example

"The government hopes the new tax cuts will deter economic growth over the next quarter."

Strongest
deter
discourage
hinder
inhibit
Strong
stifle
dampen
impede
curb
restrain
suppress

• noun (Context 2)

A thing that prompts or encourages someone to action; an incentive or stimulus.

Usage Example

"The potential for a lucrative bonus acted as a deterrent for the entire sales team."

Strongest
deterrent
disincentive
discouragement
Strong
hindrance
impediment
obstacle
curb
check

• verb (Context 3)

To urge a horse forward by digging one's spurs into its sides.

Usage Example

"She spurred her horse to a gallop as they approached the final stretch of the trail."

Strongest
rein in
Strong
halt
check

Similar words to spur

Words similar to spur shift depending on context. Common synonyms include:

incentive
stimulate
stimulus
prompt
impetus
encourage
catalyst
galvanize
See all synonyms of spur

• Nearby Words

spunk
spunkiness
spunky
spur
spuriously
spurn
spurt

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Antonyms for Spur. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/antonyms/spur
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