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 notesIn plain EnglishA snug cover or casing that protects whatever is inside it — a blade, a wire, or even a body part.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a knife sheath
cable sheath
sheath dress
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Word forms
- Plural
- sheaths
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."
Synonyms
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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.
