First Known Use: 1591
Dictionary
1sleave
noun \ˈslēv\
Definition of SLEAVE
archaic : skein <sleep that knits up the raveled sleave of care — Shakespeare>
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of SLEAVE
2sleave
2sleave
transitive verb
Definition of SLEAVE
obsolete : to separate (silk thread) into filaments
Origin of SLEAVE
Middle English *sleven, from Old English -slǣfan to cut
First Known Use: circa 1628
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: sleave silkPrevious Word in the Dictionary: sleadAll Words Near: sleave
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up sleave? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).