props: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2 (medium-high frequency in informal contexts, especially media/cultural discussions)Informal, slang (for 'respect'), Technical/formal (for theatre/film items)
Quick answer
What does “props” mean?
proper respect or recognition.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
proper respect or recognition; due praise or credit for an achievement.
Object(s) used by actors in a stage or film production (short for 'properties'). Informal term for 'proper respects'; also informal shortening of 'proper' or 'respect' in 'mad props' or 'big props'. Originally from African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and hip-hop culture.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The 'respect' meaning originated in and is more strongly associated with American English, particularly AAVE and hip-hop culture. It is now widely understood in UK English but may be perceived as an Americanism. The theatre/film 'properties' meaning is standard in both varieties.
Connotations
In both varieties, the 'respect' meaning carries informal, youthful, culturally aware connotations. In UK English, its use might signal familiarity with American pop culture.
Frequency
The 'respect' meaning is more frequent in American English. The 'theatre property' meaning is equally frequent in professional contexts in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “props” in a Sentence
give props to [person] for [action/thing][person] deserves props for [action/thing]props for [action/thing]props from [person/group]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “props” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adverb
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
adjective
British English
- N/A
American English
- N/A
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare; might be used informally in a team meeting: 'Props to Sarah for closing that deal.'
Academic
Rare for 'respect'. Standard for theatre/film studies: 'The props in this production were historically accurate.'
Everyday
Very common for 'respect' in informal conversations among friends, online comments, reviews: 'I have to give props to the chef, this meal is amazing.'
Technical
Standard term in theatre, film, TV for objects handled by actors or used to dress a set: 'The props master is responsible for sourcing all items.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “props”
Strong
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “props”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “props”
- Using 'prop' (singular) for the 'respect' meaning (almost always plural: 'props'). Confusing the two meanings: 'The actor forgot his props' vs. 'The actor deserves props'.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, when meaning 'respect', it is informal slang. When meaning 'theatrical properties', it is a standard technical term in performing arts.
No, the 'respect' meaning is almost exclusively used in the plural form 'props'. You give someone props, not a prop.
It originated in African American Vernacular English (AAVE), likely as a shortened form of 'proper respects' or 'propers', and was popularised globally through hip-hop culture.
No, 'props' is only a noun. The associated action is expressed with verbs like 'give', 'get', 'earn', or 'deserve'.
proper respect or recognition.
Props: in British English it is pronounced /prɒps/, and in American English it is pronounced /prɑːps/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Give him his props.”
- “Big props to the team!”
- “Props where props are due.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a PROfessional Performer getting reSPect for using the right PROPS on stage.
Conceptual Metaphor
RESPECT IS A TANGIBLE OBJECT THAT CAN BE GIVEN AND RECEIVED (e.g., 'give props', 'get props').
Practice
Quiz
In which context does 'props' NOT mean 'respect' or 'credit'?