sheave

¹

[ sheev ]

verb (used with object)

, sheaved, sheav·ing.

1. to gather, collect, or bind into a sheaf or sheaves.

sheave

²

[ shiv, sheev ]

noun

1. a pulley for hoisting or hauling, having a grooved rim for retaining a wire rope.
2. a wheel with a grooved rim, for transmitting force to a cable or belt.

sheave

¹

/ ʃiːv /

verb

1. tr to gather or bind into sheaves

sheave

²

/ ʃiːv /

noun

1. a wheel with a grooved rim, esp one used as a pulley

Word History and Origins

Origin of sheave¹

First recorded in 1570–80; derivative of sheaf

Origin of sheave²

1300–50; Middle English schive; akin to Dutch schijf sheave, German Scheibe disk

Word History and Origins

Origin of sheave¹

C14: of Germanic origin; compare Old High German scība disc

Example Sentences

Upon this sheave, a smaller horizontal pulley x′ rubs, whose upper face is covered with leather to increase the friction.

From Project Gutenberg

The water was smooth as oil, and so still that not a creaking rope or rattling sheave disturbed the deathlike silence.

From Project Gutenberg

Opening my eyes, I thrust at the opening of the sheave with the end of the line; but it was knotted, and would not go through.

From Project Gutenberg

Unfortunately the halliards had somehow got jammed aloft in the sheave, and the sail would not come down.

From Project Gutenberg

I could see men moving about; I could hear the creaking of the blocks, as the light roll drew a rope over a sheave.

From Project Gutenberg