[share] n [ME schare, fr. OE scear; akin to OHG scaro plowshare, OE scieran to cut--more at shear] (bef. 12c): plowshare
[2]share n [ME, fr. OE scearu cutting, tonsure; akin to OE scieran to cut] (14c) 1 a: a portion belonging to, due to, or contributed by an individual or group b: one's full or fair portion
2. a: the part allotted or belonging to one of a number owning together property or interest b: any of the equal portions into which property or invested capital is divided; specif: any of the equal interests or rights into which the entire capital stock of a corporation is divided and ownership of which is regularly evidenced by one or more certificates c pl, chiefly Brit: stock 7c(1) [3]share vb shared ; shar.ing vt (1590) 1: to divide and distribute in shares: apportion--usu. used with out or with
2. a: to partake of, use, experience, occupy, or enjoy with others b: to have in common
3: to grant or give a share in ~ vi 1: to have a share--used with in
2: to apportion and take shares of something -- shar.er n syn share, participate, partake mean to have, get, or use in common with another or others. share implies that one as the original holder grants to another the partial use, enjoyment, or possession of a thing though it may merely imply a mutual use or possession "shared my toys with the others". participate implies a having or taking part in an undertaking, activity, or discussion "participated in sports". partake implies accepting or acquiring a share esp. of food or drink "partook freely of the refreshments".