noun
sheath
sheeth
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.
Common pairings
a knife sheath
cable sheath
sheath dress
Word Forms
sheaths plural
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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."