ETYM Old Eng. crucche, AS. crycc, cricc; akin to Dutch kruk, German krücke, Dan. krykke, Swed. krycka, and to Eng. crook. Related to Crook, Cricket a low stool.
1. A wooden or metal staff that fits under the armpit and reaches to the ground; used by disabled person while walking.
2. Anything that serves as an expedient.