Shear: meaning, definitions and examples

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shear

 

[ ʃɪr ]

Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Verb

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

clip, crop, cut, trim

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.
Context #2 | Noun

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

clippers, scissors, snips

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

Translations of the word "shear" in other languages:

🇵🇹 corte

🇮🇳 कतरना

🇩🇪 schneiden

🇮🇩 memotong

🇺🇦 різати

🇵🇱 ciąć

🇯🇵 切る

🇫🇷 couper

🇪🇸 cortar

🇹🇷 kesmek

🇰🇷 자르다

🇸🇦 قص

🇨🇿 stříhat

🇸🇰 strihanie

🇨🇳 剪切

🇸🇮 rezati

🇮🇸 klippa

🇰🇿 кесу

🇬🇪 აჭრილი

🇦🇿 kəsmək

🇲🇽 cortar

Word origin

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.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,869, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.