verb

shelve

Shelve (verb) means to furnish (a place) with shelves; especially, to furnish (a library, etc.) with bookshelves.

verb

To furnish (a place) with shelves; especially, to furnish (a library, etc.) with bookshelves.

To place (something) on a shelf; especially, to place or arrange (books) on a bookshelf.

To place (something) in a certain location, as if on a shelf.

To take (drugs) by anal or vaginal insertion.

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.

Test yourself on “shelve” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Etymology

The verb is a back-formation from shelves, the plural of shelf (“flat, rigid structure, fixed at right angles to a wall or forming a part of a cabinet, desk, etc., and used to display, store, or support objects”). The noun is derived from etymology 1, verb sense 2 (“(obsolete) to hang over or project like a shelf”).

Rhymes for shelve

delve twelve

See all rhymes for shelve →

Frequently asked questions

What is the meaning of shelve?

"shelve" (verb) means to furnish (a place) with shelves; especially, to furnish (a library, etc.) with bookshelves.

What are the different meanings of shelve?

"shelve" has 3 main meanings: 1. To furnish (a place) with shelves; especially, to furnish (a library, etc.) with bookshelves; 2. To place (something) on a shelf; especially, to place or arrange (books) on a bookshelf; 3. To place (something) in a certain location, as if on a shelf.