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Shelves Meaning: Definition and Examples

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shelves

[ʃɛlvz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

furniture storage

Shelves are flat, horizontal surfaces that are supported by vertical structures, typically used for storing or displaying items. They can be found in various settings such as homes, offices, and retail spaces, often designed to hold books, decorative items, or groceries.

Synonyms

ledges, platforms, racks.

Examples of usage

  • She placed the books on the shelves.
  • The living room has custom-built shelves.
  • He organized the dishes on the kitchen shelves.
Context #2 | Noun

marine geology

In marine geology, shelves refer to continental shelves, which are areas of seabed around a large landmass, where the sea is relatively shallow compared to the open ocean. This geological feature is important for marine ecosystems and fisheries.

Synonyms

continental margins, floodplains.

Examples of usage

  • The continental shelves are rich in resources.
  • Researchers study the marine life on the shelves.
  • Pollution can greatly affect the health of the shelves.

Interesting Facts

Architecture

  • Shelves have been used for centuries, with early examples found in ancient Egyptian and Roman civilizations, showcasing art and storage.
  • In modern design, floating shelves have become popular, giving a minimalist look to homes and offices.
  • Bookshelves are specifically designed to support the weight of books and have evolved in style and function over the decades.

Psychology

  • Organized shelves can lead to a sense of order in a person’s life, affecting mood and productivity positively.
  • Color-coded shelves often help people locate items more efficiently, showing how we process visual information.
  • Studies suggest that the way items are displayed on shelves can influence purchasing decisions in retail spaces.

Pop Culture

  • Shelves have been featured prominently in literature, with famous characters often depicted organizing or discovering treasures on them.
  • In popular TV shows, a character's bookshelf reveals their personality, interests, and hobbies, making it a storytelling tool.
  • The phrase 'on the shelf' can refer to someone who's temporarily out of action but is often used humorously to indicate a lack of interest.

Sustainability

  • Many modern shelves are made from sustainable materials, reflecting a growing trend towards eco-friendly furniture design.
  • Repurposing old items into shelves is a popular DIY project, helping to reduce waste while creating unique home decor.
  • Shelving systems that are modular encourage flexibility in home design, allowing people to adapt space to their needs efficiently.

Origin of 'shelves'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'shelf' comes from the Old English 'scylfe', which meant a ledge or a support.
  • In Old Norse, the word 'skálfr' meant a projecting part, similar to how we think of shelves today.
  • The plural form 'shelves' was influenced by the way pluralization occurs in Germanic languages.

The word 'shelf' has its origins in the Old English term 'scylf' or 'scealf,' meaning a ledge or support. It is thought to relate to Proto-Germanic *skilfō, which also means a shelf or ledge. This term has cognates in several Germanic languages, such as the Dutch 'plank' and the German 'Regal,' which both refer to flat surfaces for holding items. The use of shelves in furniture design has evolved over centuries, initially serving practical purposes in homes and communal spaces, and gradually transforming into a fundamental element of modern interior design as well as an essential feature in retail and storage solutions.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,192 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.