■ noun
1》 a long, narrow part or section forming the handle of a tool or club, the body of a spear or arrow, or similar.
↘an arrow or spear.
↘a column, especially the part between the base and capital.
↘a long cylindrical rotating rod for the transmission of motive power in a machine.
↘each of the pair of poles between which a horse is harnessed to a vehicle.
2》 a ray of light or bolt of lightning.
3》 a sudden flash of a quality or feeling.
↘a witty, wounding, or provoking remark.
4》 a long, narrow, typically vertical hole giving access to a mine, accommodating a lift, etc.
5》 vulgar slang a man's penis.
6》 ( the ~ ) N. Amer. informal harsh or unfair treatment.
■ verb
1》 (of light) shine in beams.
2》 vulgar slang (of a man) have sex with.
3》 informal treat harshly or unfairly.
Derivatives
~ed adjective
Origin
OE scæft , sceaft 'handle, pole', of Gmc origin; perh. related to sceptre .