éperonner

Senses

1. 1.

   to spur (a horse)

   to urge a horse forward by using spurs

2. 2.

   to spur on; to encourage

   to incite or urge someone to action

3. 3.

   to ram; to breach (fortifications)

   to attack or break through with force (military/nautical context)

Examples

• "Le cavalier a éperonn son cheval pour accélérer."

  The rider spurred his horse to accelerate.

• "Cette victoire l'a éperonn à poursuivre son combat."

  This victory spurred him on to continue his fight.

• "Les assaillants ont éperonn les portes de la forteresse."

  The attackers rammed the fortress gates.

Usage

Éperonner is a somewhat formal or literary verb, most commonly used in equestrian contexts or historical/military narratives. The figurative sense (to encourage/urge on) is still used but formal. Common in historical fiction and adventure narratives.