English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun

sheath

sheeth

Sheath (noun) means a close-fitting cover that protects a blade, such as a sword or knife. Example: “He slid the hunting knife back into its leather sheath.”

noun
1
A close-fitting cover that protects a blade, such as a sword or knife.
"He slid the hunting knife back into its leather sheath."
2
Any close-fitting protective covering, such as insulation on a cable or a tight dress.
"The wiring is protected by a rubber sheath to stop it fraying."
"She wore a slim black sheath dress to the gala."

How to use sheath

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA snug cover or casing that protects whatever is inside it — a blade, a wire, or even a body part.

Common pairings
a knife sheath cable sheath sheath dress

Word forms

sheaths plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “sheath” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

He slid the hunting knife back into its leather _____.

Etymology

From Old English sċēaþ, "sheath," an ancient Germanic word for a protective case built around the idea of "splitting" or "dissecting."

Origin: Old English

case cocktail dress

Related words

Rhymes for sheath

See all rhymes for sheath →

Frequently asked questions

What does “sheath” mean?

The word “sheath” means a close-fitting cover that protects a blade, such as a sword or knife. In plain terms, a snug cover or casing that protects whatever is inside it — a blade, a wire, or even a body part.

How do you pronounce “sheath”?

“Sheath” is pronounced sheeth (/ʃiθ/ in IPA).

How do you use “sheath” in a sentence?

Here is “sheath” used in a sentence: “He slid the hunting knife back into its leather sheath.”

What part of speech is “sheath”?

“Sheath” is a noun.

Where does the word “sheath” come from?

The word “sheath” comes from Old English. From Old English sċēaþ, "sheath," an ancient Germanic word for a protective case built around the idea of "splitting" or "dissecting.".

How many meanings does “sheath” have?

“Sheath” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a close-fitting cover that protects a blade, such as a sword or knife.

People also searched

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial