Category:Sheaf

Sheaf, n. (mech.)

Defn: a sheave. [r.]

Sheaf Sheaf, n.; pl. Sheaves. Etym: [oe. sheef, shef, schef, as. sceáf; Akin to d. schoof, ohg. scoub, g. schaub, icel. skauf a fox's brush, And e. shove. See shove.]

1. A quantity of the stalks and ears of wheat, rye, or other grain, Bound together; a bundle of grain or straw. The reaper fills his greedy hands, and binds the golden sheaves in Brittle bands. Dryden.

2. Any collection of things bound together; a bundle; specifically, a Bundle of arrows sufficient to fill a quiver, or the allowance of Each archer, -- usually twenty-four. The sheaf of arrows shook and rattled in the case. Dryden.

Sheaf Sheaf, v. t.

Defn: to gather and bind into a sheaf; to make into sheaves; as, to Sheaf wheat.

Sheaf Sheaf, v. i.

Defn: to collect and bind cut grain, or the like; to make sheaves. They that reap must sheaf and bind. Shak.