shelve
1 Americanverb (used with object)
-
to place (something) on a shelf or shelves.
-
to put off or aside from consideration.
to shelve the question.
- Synonyms:
- pigeonhole, table, defer
-
to remove from active use or service; dismiss.
-
to furnish with shelves.
verb (used without object)
verb
-
to place on a shelf
-
to provide with shelves
-
to put aside or postpone from consideration
-
to dismiss or cause to retire
verb
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of shelve1
First recorded in 1585–95; verb use of shelve(s)
Origin of shelve2
1580–90; origin uncertain; compare Frisian skelf not quite level
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
See Examples For:
Turmoil in the bond market might have played a role in the decision of smart-ring maker Oura to shelve its IPO.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 29, 2026
A few days ago team officials expressed optimism, but Tuesday they decided to shelve their shortstop when the ankle became inflamed after a workout.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 16, 2026
The plane maker ultimately decided the jet would need to be too big to take advantage of the aerodynamic efficiencies, according to a person familiar with its decision to shelve the plans.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 29, 2026
Walsh told the jury it was human nature to "box" or "shelve" feelings away – and that was what Complainant A and B had done over the years.
From BBC ● Jun. 16, 2026
“Sir, I know you’re a very important, very busy man, so I just have one quick question: If I were a book on true crimes in the state of Ohio, where would you shelve me?”
From "Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library" by Chris Grabenstein
Though the congress went ahead — with many top oil executives attending virtually — the summit and investment conference were shelved till next year.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 28, 2026
Connie Egan said this report should not be "read,noted and shelved"
From BBC ● Oct. 19, 2026
But as state "bodegas" disappear, the "libreta" ration book that symbolized equal access to affordable food for all is being quietly shelved.
From Barron's ● Oct. 9, 2026
South Korea and Japan shelved decades of historical enmity to present China with a united front.
From Slate ● Oct. 8, 2026
Now all she could do was listen: “Ah, here’s what I’m looking for! The Huntsman’s Almanac. I keep this copy shelved in my study. The maid must have put it away.”
From "The Incorrigible Children of Ashton Place: Book I: The Mysterious Howling" by Maryrose Wood
October alone has witnessed the shelving of three separate flotations planned for data-center providers, backed by AI powerhouses like Nvidia, Blackstone and SoftBank.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 24, 2026
Herman later added a wall to divide the studio space as well as custom shelving for his expansive library and ceramics.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 6, 2026
Among them was Cameron’s upstairs work loft, where Alix ripped out the carpet before adding dark gray textured walls, wood flooring, custom black shelving, weathered-looking light fixtures, and a large glass table.
From MarketWatch ● Sep. 8, 2026
In January, Spanish prosecutors said their shelving of the case did not prevent the women from filing their complaint in other jurisdictions.
From Barron's ● Sep. 4, 2026
Cots, trunks, and rickety shelving occupied the space.
From "The City Beautiful" by Aden Polydoros
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