n.
- 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.
- a ray of light or bolt of lightning.
- a sudden flash of a quality or feeling.
▸a witty, wounding, or provoking remark.
- a long, narrow, typically vertical hole giving access to a mine, accommodating a lift, etc.
- vulgar slang a man's penis.
-
(the shaft)
N. Amer. informal harsh or unfair treatment.
v.
- (of light) shine in beams.
- vulgar slang (of a man) have sex with.
- informal treat harshly or unfairly.
Derivative
Etymology
OE scæft, sceaft ‘handle, pole’, of Gmc origin; perh. rel. to sceptre.