stirrup leather

the strap that holds the stirrup of a saddle.

Also called stirrup strap.

Origin of stirrup leather

Middle English word dating back to 1350–1400

Twice he nearly lost hold of the stirrup-leather and would have fallen; then at last became aware of slackening pace.

John Ames, Native Commissioner |Bertram Mitford
Thus did Ardassan Ougli speak, after receiving the stirrup-leather from one of his masters.

Voltaire's Philosophical Dictionary |Voltaire
Some of these are the animals to try your mettle and seat, and I was only once thrown, owing to a stirrup-leather breaking.

Ladies on Horseback |Nannie Lambert
Even the pony felt the good influence and almost broke into a trot as Kim laid a hand on the stirrup-leather.

Kim |Rudyard Kipling

Lay hold of my stirrup-leather and be lashed to it, and show me straight as the crow flies to where the weapons are hidden.

Stories By English Authors: France |Various