Main Entry: shelf

Pronunciation: \ˈshelf\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural shelves \ˈshelvz\

Etymology: Middle English, probably from Old English scylfe; akin to Old Norse hlīthskjalf Odin's seat

Date: 14th century

1 a : a thin flat usually long and narrow piece of material (as wood) fastened horizontally (as on a wall) at a distance from the floor to hold objects b : one of several similar pieces in a closet, bookcase, or similar structure c : the contents of a shelf <the author of a shelf of best sellers>
2 : something resembling a shelf in form or position: as a : a sandbank or ledge of rocks usually partially submerged b : a flat projecting layer of rock c : the submerged gradually sloping border of a continent or island : continental shelf

— shelf·ful \ˈshelf-ˌfu̇l\ noun

— shelf·like \ˈshelf-ˌlīk\ adjective

— off the shelf : available from stock : not made to order <off the shelf equipment>

— on the shelf : in a state of inactivity or uselessness