GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

Found 4 definitions

1.       
   Sheaf , n. (Mech.) A sheave. [R.]
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2.       
   Sheaf, n.; pl. Sheaves . [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.]
   A quantity of the stalks and ears of wheat, rye, or other grain, bound together; a bundle of grain or straw.
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   The reaper fills his greedy hands,
   And binds the golden sheaves in brittle bands.
   Dryden.
   
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   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.
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   The sheaf of arrows shook and rattled in the case.
   Dryden.
   
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3.       
   Sheaf, v. t. To gather and bind into a sheaf; to make into sheaves; as, to sheaf wheat.
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4.       
   Sheaf , v. i. To collect and bind cut grain, or the like; to make sheaves.
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   They that reap must sheaf and bind.
   Shak.
   
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