sheathe

[sheeth]

verb (used with object)

sheathed, sheathing 

1. to put (a sword, dagger, etc.) into a sheath.

2. to plunge (a sword, dagger, etc.) in something as if in a sheath.

3. to enclose in or as if in a casing or covering.

4. to cover or provide with a protective layer or sheathing.

   to sheathe a roof with copper.

5. to cover (a cable, electrical connector, etc.) with a metal sheath for grounding.

sheathe

/ ʃiːð /

verb

1. to insert (a knife, sword, etc) into a sheath

2. (esp of cats) to retract (the claws)

3. to surface with or encase in a sheath or sheathing

Other Word Forms

• sheather noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of sheathe¹

1350–1400; Middle English shethen, derivative of sheath

Example Sentences

"We strongly advise that you keep this tool concealed, sheathed, and out of sight in public places – preferably in a gardening bag or toolbox rather than on your belt," it added.

From BBC

A graduate of music videos, Saxon — like the Gondrys and Jonzes before him — excels at sheathing his yarn in idiosyncratic humor, atmosphere and technique.

From Los Angeles Times

A gate in the barrier opened and Border Patrol, Marines and Army officials showed reporters how both fences were now sheathed in concertina wire.

From Los Angeles Times

At its heart was a 12ft tall emblem of the Hindu god Shiva, sheathed in gold encrusted with rubies and pearls.

From BBC

One foot was bare, the other was sheathed in a dirty sock.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• encase