Shear Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
✂️
shear
[ʃɪr ]
Definitions
cutting plants
To shear means to cut the wool off of a sheep or to cut back a plant or shrub. It is often used in agriculture, particularly in relation to sheep farming. The process is essential for the health and cleanliness of the flock. Shearing can also refer to any cutting action, as seen in the use of tools such as shears or scissors. The term implies a clean and precise cut that may be necessary for the upkeep of plants or animals.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Farmers shear their sheep annually.
- We need to shear the hedges before spring.
- He decided to shear his long locks for a new look.
cutting tools
Shear in this context refers to a tool or instrument used for cutting, such as scissors or gardening shears. These tools are designed to provide a clean cut and are essential in various tasks, from hairdressing to gardening. They come in various sizes and designs depending on the specific use they are intended for, and are often made with sharp blades to ensure efficiency.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I need my shears to trim the bushes.
- The hairdresser used professional shears for the haircut.
- Garden shears are a must for any gardener.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Agriculture
- Shearing is vital in agriculture as it helps farmers collect wool for clothing and carpets.
- Well-timed shearings can also benefit sheep by preventing overheating during hot months.
- Some sheep breeds require shearing twice a year due to rapid wool growth.
Physics
- In physics, 'shear' describes a particular kind of stress or force that causes layers to slide against each other.
- Shear stress plays an important role in engineering, especially concerning the strength of materials.
- Understanding shear forces is crucial in designing buildings to withstand earthquakes.
Cultural Significance
- In some cultures, shearing sheep is celebrated with festivals showcasing traditional wool crafts.
- The process symbolizes rejuvenation in agriculture, marking new beginnings for the flock each year.
- Shearing time can be a community event, bringing people together to celebrate local farming traditions.
Popular Media
- In popular films, characters often shear sheep for comedic moments, showcasing the quirky side of country life.
- Sheep shearing events also appear on reality TV, focusing on agricultural lifestyles and skills.
- Documentaries about farming often highlight the shear process, emphasizing the importance of animal care.
Origin of 'shear'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'shear' comes from the Old English 'scear', meaning to cut or to divide.
- Over time, the term evolved in usage, especially in farming and textile contexts.
- In early uses, it was related to cutting tools, which have been essential since ancient times for agriculture.
The word 'shear' originates from the Old English word 'scearian', which means 'to cut'. It has roots in the Proto-Germanic *skerwōną, meaning 'to cut or divide'. This term also shares connections with various Germanic languages, such as 'scheren' in German and 'skera' in Old Norse, which also convey similar meanings related to cutting. Over centuries, the use of 'shear' has expanded beyond its agricultural beginnings to include applications in various trades and professions, reflecting a fundamental aspect of human innovation and the need for precision cutting tools. By the 14th century, the term was commonly associated with the practice of shearing sheep, which became essential for wool production in Europe. The evolution of the tool, from simple hand tools to more sophisticated mechanical shears, reflects changes in agriculture and craftsmanship throughout history.