Shelf Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
📚
shelf
[ʃɛlf ]
Definitions
in a library
A flat length of wood or rigid material, attached to a wall or forming part of a piece of furniture, that provides a surface for the storage or display of objects.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shelf |
This is a flat, horizontal surface attached to a wall or built into a piece of furniture, used to store items. Typically found in homes, offices, and libraries.
|
| rack |
This is a framework typically with bars, pegs, or hooks, designed to store or organize items, often used for clothes, bicycles, or dishes.
|
| ledge |
This is a narrow horizontal surface projecting from a wall or cliff. Often found in natural settings or as architectural features.
|
| stand |
This is a piece of furniture or structure designed to support an object. Common in situations involving displays, presentations, or musical instruments.
|
Examples of usage
- He placed the book back on the shelf.
- The shelves were filled with various items.
in a store
A flat, horizontal surface on which items are placed.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shelf |
A flat piece of wood, metal, or glass used for storing items such as books, dishes, or decorative items. Usually attached to a wall or inside furniture.
|
| counter |
A flat surface in a kitchen, store, or bar used for preparing food, serving drinks, or conducting transactions. Typically found in commercial or home kitchens, and customer service areas.
|
| display |
A setup or arrangement of items meant to be viewed by an audience, often used in stores to showcase products for sale. Can also refer to visual presentations in exhibitions or museums.
|
| rack |
A framework, often with bars, used for holding or organizing items such as clothes, magazines, or wine. Typically used for storage or display purposes.
|
Examples of usage
- The products on the shelf need to be restocked.
- The shelf in the store held a variety of products.
put away
To place or arrange items on a shelf or shelves.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| shelf |
Use 'shelf' when talking about a flat surface in a room or a piece of furniture where you can place items such as books, decorations, or kitchen ingredients.
|
| store |
Use 'store' when referring to keeping items in a specific place for future use, often for an extended period. This can also mean a retail establishment where items are sold.
|
| put away |
Use 'put away' when you want to describe the action of returning items to their proper place after use, often to keep things tidy.
|
| stock |
The word 'stock' is appropriate in contexts related to supplying items or products to a place, such as a store or warehouse, usually for future use or sale.
|
Examples of usage
- She shelved the books after reading them.
- He shelved the boxes neatly in the storage room.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Shelves have been used since ancient times, with early variations made from wood and stone in Mediterranean cultures.
- In many cultures, bookshelves are considered a sign of education and wisdom, often decorated in homes.
- Floating shelves have become popular in modern design, emphasizing minimalism and open spaces.
Architecture and Design
- Shelving designs vary from open styles to enclosed cabinets, catering to different aesthetics and purposes.
- In libraries, shelves are often arranged categorically, making it easier to find specific genres or subjects.
- The rise of modular and adjustable shelving has transformed both residential and commercial interior design.
Environmental Impact
- Sustainable materials, such as bamboo or reclaimed wood, are gaining popularity for shelving due to environmental concerns.
- In modern construction, eco-friendly shelves promote sustainability while providing versatile storage options.
- The concept of 'less is more' influences shelf design, encouraging minimalist approaches that save space.
Psychology
- The organization of shelves can reflect a person's personality and values, often showcasing hobbies or interests.
- Studies have shown that a tidy shelf space can lead to better focus and productivity in work environments.
- Decorative items on shelves can elicit positive emotions, helping create a pleasant living or working atmosphere.
Origin of 'shelf'
Main points about word origin
- The word traces back to the Old English 'scealf', meaning a flat surface.
- In Old Norse, the word 'skelj' indicated a shelf or ledge, revealing its Scandinavian roots.
- The modern spelling evolved in the 14th century as storage needs increased in homes.
The word 'shelf' originated from the Old English word 'scelf' which meant 'a planed board, a ledge'. Over time, the word evolved to refer to a flat surface for storage. Shelves have been used throughout history in various forms, from simple wooden planks to intricate shelving units in modern homes and stores.
See also: shelve.