First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
shelf
noun \ˈshelf\
: a flat board which is attached to a wall, frame, etc., and on which objects can be placed
geology : a flat area of rock, sand, etc., especially underwater
plural shelves \ˈshelvz\
Full Definition of SHELF
1
a : a thin flat usually long and narrow piece of material (as wood) fastened horizontally (as on a wall) at a distance from the floor to hold objects b : one of several similar pieces in a closet, bookcase, or similar structure c : the contents of a shelf <the author of a shelf of best sellers>
2
: something resembling a shelf in form or position: as a : a sandbank or ledge of rocks usually partially submerged b : a flat projecting layer of rock c : the submerged gradually sloping border of a continent or island : continental shelf
— shelf·ful \ˈshelf-ˌfu̇l\ noun
— shelf·like \ˈshelf-ˌlīk\ adjective
— off the shelf
: available from stock : not made to order <off the shelf equipment>
— on the shelf
: in a state of inactivity or uselessness
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Origin of SHELF
Middle English, probably from Old English scylfe; akin to Old Norse hlīthskjalf Odin's seat
OFF THE SHELF Defined for Kids
shelf
noun \ˈshelf\
plural shelves \ˈshelvz\
Definition of SHELF for Kids
1
: a flat piece (as of wood or metal) set above a floor (as on a wall or in a bookcase) to hold things
2
: a flat area (as of rock)
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