kickstand

American  

[kik-stand] / ˈkɪkˌstænd /

noun

1. a device for supporting a bicycle or motorcycle when not in use, pivoted to the rear axle in such a way that it can be kicked down below the rear wheel.

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kickstand British  

/ ˈkɪkˌstænd /

noun

1. a short metal bar attached to and pivoting on the bottom of the frame of a motorcycle or bicycle, which when kicked into a vertical position holds the stationary vehicle upright

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Etymology

Origin of kickstand

First recorded in 1945–50; kick + stand

Explanation

A kickstand is a device that allows you to rest a bicycle in an upright position, without having to lean it against something. Don't just drop your bike in the driveway when you get home — use your kickstand! Many bikes and motorcycles come with kickstands, pieces of metal that you can flip down and rest against the ground. Kick your kickstand and you've got an easy way to balance your bicycle while you run into the store or knock on a friend's door. The original kickstand, invented in the 1860s, was very tall, extending all the way from the handlebars to the ground. These days, kickstands are more common on kids' bikes than adults'.

Example Sentences

She points out that this is also the “easiest and cheapest” way to store a bike, because all you need to hold it up is a kickstand.

From Washington Post • Feb. 21, 2023

When I wanted a big-ass screen, I unfolded the thing, knocked out the built-in kickstand, plonked it on my desk, and used the Bluetooth keyboard on the surface in front of it.

From The Verge • Aug. 31, 2022

The kickstand is quite well camouflaged, and looks just like part of the fancy cover.

From The Verge • Aug. 31, 2022

This 11-inch tablet features a built-in kickstand and comes packaged with a keyboard folio and pen to provide a more laptop-adjacent experience.

From The Verge • Jun. 2, 2022

Down goes my bike’s kickstand, up goes Mateo as I slide my arms under his and pick him up.

From "They Both Die at the End" by Adam Silvera