Stope (?), n. [Cf. Step, n. & v. i.] Mining
A horizontal working forming one of a series, the working faces of which present the appearance of a flight of steps.
© Webster 1913.
Stope, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Stoped (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Stoping.] Mining (a)
To excavate in the form of stopes.
(b)
To fill in with rubbish, as a space from which the ore has been worked out.
© Webster 1913.
Stope (?), Sto"pen (?), p. p. of Step.
Stepped; gone; advanced.
[Obs.]
A poor widow, somedeal stope in age.
Chaucer.
© Webster 1913.