Main Entry: sheath

Pronunciation: \ˈshēth\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural sheaths \ˈshēthz, ˈshēths\

Etymology: Middle English shethe, from Old English scēath; akin to Old High German sceida sheath and perhaps to Latin scindere to split — more at shed

Date: before 12th century

1 : a case for a blade (as of a knife)
2 : an investing cover or case of a plant or animal body or body part: as a : the tubular fold of skin into which the penis of many mammals is retracted b (1) : the lower part of a leaf (as of a grass) when surrounding the stem (2) : an ensheathing spathe
3 : any of various covering or supporting structures that are applied like or resemble in appearance or function the sheath of a blade: as a : sheathing 2 b : a woman's close-fitting dress that is usually worn without a belt c British : condom 1