n. & v.
n. 1 a an arrow or spear. b the long slender stem of these. 2 a remark intended to hurt or provoke (a shaft of malice; shafts of wit). 3 (foll. by of) a a ray (of light). b a bolt (of lightning). 4 the stem or handle of a tool, implement, etc. 5 a column, esp. between the base and capital. 6 a long narrow space, usu. vertical, for access to a mine, a lift in a building, for ventilation, etc. 7 a long and narrow part supporting or connecting or driving a part or parts of greater thickness etc. 8 each of the pair of poles between which a horse is harnessed to a vehicle. 9 the central stem of a feather. 10 Mech. a large axle or revolving bar transferring force by belts or cogs. 11 US colloq. harsh or unfair treatment.
v.tr. US colloq. treat unfairly.
[ OE scft, sceaft f. Gmc ]