n. 1. One who, or that which, supports; as, oxygen is a supporter of life. [ 1913 Webster ] The sockets and supporters of flowers are figured. Bacon. [ 1913 Webster ] The saints have a . . . supporter in all their miseries. South. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. Especially, an adherent; one who sustains, advocates, and defends; as, the supporter of a party, faction, or candidate. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. (Shipbuilding) A knee placed under the cathead. [ 1913 Webster ] 4. (Her.) A figure, sometimes of a man, but commonly of some animal, placed on either side of an escutcheon, and exterior to it. Usually, both supporters of an escutcheon are similar figures. [ 1913 Webster ] 5. (Med.) A broad band or truss for supporting the abdomen or some other part or organ. [ 1913 Webster ] [ 1913 Webster ] |