Category:Graft

Graft, n. Etym: [OE. graff, F. greffe, originally the same word as OF. grafe pencil, L. graphium, Gr. carve. So named from the resemblance of a scion or shoot to a pointed pencil. Cf. Graphic, Grammar.] (a) A small shoot or scion of a tree inserted in another tree, the stock of which is to support and nourish it. The two unite and become one tree, but the graft determines the kind of fruit. (b) A branch or portion of a tree growing from such a shoot. (c) (Surg.) A portion of living tissue used in the operation of autoplasty.

graft Graft, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Grafted; p. pr. & vb. n. Grafting.] Etym: [F. greffer. See Graft, n.]

1. To insert (a graft) in a branch or stem of another tree; to propagate by insertion in another stock; also, to insert a graft upon. [Formerly written graff.]

2.

(Surg.)

Defn: To implant a portion of (living flesh or akin) in a lesion so as to form an organic union.

3.

Defn: To join (one thing) to another as if by grafting, so as to bring about a close union. And graft my love immortal on thy fame ! Pope.

4.

(Naut.)

Defn: To cover, as a ring bolt, block strap, splicing, etc., with a weaving of small cord or rope-yarns.

graft Graft, v. i.

Defn: To insert scions from one tree, or kind of tree, etc., into another; to practice grafting.

- ---excerpt from the Illustrated Bible Dictionary

Graft - The process of inoculating fruit-trees (Romans 11:17). It is peculiarly appropriate to olive-trees. The union thus of branches to a stem is used to illustrate the union of true believers to the true Church.