crutch
noun
a staff or support to assist a lame or infirm person in walking, now usually with a crosspiece at one end to fit under the armpit.
crutches
-
pluralof crutch.plural
The grammatical form denoting more than one person, place, thing, or idea.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Mr. Murakami has the authority—and, one assumes, the readerly trust—to leave behind such narrative crutches as character-building detail or precise language.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Nov. 1, 2026
After the match, Williams' knee was swollen and medical staff offered crutches to aid her walking - which she is said to have declined.
From BBC ● Jul. 1, 2026
Others required the use of crutches, wheelchairs and, in the most extreme cases, artificial breathing machines known as iron lungs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 21, 2026
Richards’ ankle was so swollen after the injury that he had to use crutches.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 10, 2026
I was still on my crutches then, but it didn’t matter.
From "The Sea in Winter" by Christine Day
