'spur' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'spura', where 'spur' meant 'a pointed device on a rider's heel'.

'spura' transformed into the Middle English word 'spure', and eventually became the modern English word 'spur'.

Initially, it meant 'a pointed device on a rider's heel', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to urge or encourage someone to do something'.