supportor

Supportor is a term that may function as an agent noun formed from support, used to indicate someone or something that provides backing or bearing. In contemporary English, it is far less common than the standard form supporter and is often treated as a misspelling or archaic variant. Some texts, especially older writings or non-native materials, may appear with this spelling, but it is not widely preferred in modern usage.

As a noun, supportor can refer to two related ideas. First, a person who offers support for a cause, organization, or individual, similar to a supporter. Second, a device or structural element that provides physical support, such as a prop, brace, bracket, stand, or column, used to bear weight, maintain alignment, or prevent movement. In engineering and architecture, such components are described by more specific terms, but historical or technical documents may encounter the broader label.

Usage guidelines suggest favoring the standard form supporter for people or enthusiasts, and the specific mechanical terms (prop, brace, bracket, post) for components. The spelling supportor is generally avoided in modern professional writing unless quoting older sources or preserving exact historical terminology.

See also: supporter, support, sponsorship, backer.