Shelf: meaning, definitions and examples

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shelf

[ ʃɛlf ]

^{Context #1}

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

ledge, rack, stand

Examples of usage

He placed the book back on the shelf.
The shelves were filled with various items.

^{Context #2}

in a store

A flat, horizontal surface on which items are placed.

Synonyms

counter, display, rack

Examples of usage

The products on the shelf need to be restocked.
The shelf in the store held a variety of products.

^{Context #3}

put away

To place or arrange items on a shelf or shelves.

Synonyms

put away, stock, store

Examples of usage

She shelved the books after reading them.
He shelved the boxes neatly in the storage room.

Translations

Translations of the word "shelf" in other languages:

🇵🇹 prateleira

🇮🇳 शेल्फ

तख्ता
अलमारी

🇩🇪 Regal

🇮🇩 rak

🇺🇦 полиця

🇵🇱 półka

🇯🇵 棚 (たな)

🇫🇷 étagère

🇪🇸 estante

🇹🇷 raf

🇰🇷 선반

🇸🇦 رف

🇨🇿 police

🇸🇰 polica

🇨🇳 架子 (jiàzi)

🇸🇮 polica

🇮🇸 hilla

🇰🇿 сөре

🇬🇪 თარო

🇦🇿 rəf

🇲🇽 estante

Word origin

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.