Category:Stake

Stake, n. Etym: [as. staca, from the root of e. stick; akin to Ofries. & lg. stake, d. staak, sw. stake, dan. stage. See stick, v. T., and cf. Estacade, stockade.]

1. A piece of wood, usually long and slender, pointed at one end so As to be easily driven into the ground as a support or stay; as, a Stake to support vines, fences, hedges, etc. A sharpened stake strong dryas found. Dryden.

2. A stick inserted upright in a lop, eye, or mortise, at the side or End of a cart, a flat car, or the like, to prevent goods from falling Off.

3. The piece of timber to which a martyr was affixed to be burned; Hence, martyrdom by fire.

4. A small anvil usually furnished with a tang to enter a hole in a Bench top, -- used by tinsmiths, blacksmiths, etc., for light work, Punching upon, etc.

5. That which is laid down as a wager; that which is staked or Hazarded; a pledge. At stake, in danger; hazarded; pledged. "i see my Reputation is at stake." Shak.

Stake Stake, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Staked; p. pr. & vb. n. Staking.]

1. To fasten, support, or defend with stakes; as, to stake vines or Plants.

2. To mark the limits of by stakes; -- with out; as, to stake out Land; to stake out a new road.

3. To put at hazard upon the issue of competition, or upon a future Contingency; to wager; to pledge. I'll stake yon lamb, that near the fountain plays. Pope.

4. To pierce or wound with a stake. Spectator.