shelf

noun

ˈshelf 

plural shelves ˈshelvz 

1

a

: a thin flat usually long and narrow piece of material (such 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 bestsellers

2

: something resembling a shelf in form or position: such 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

shelfful

ˈshelf-ˌfu̇l 

noun

shelflike

ˈshelf-ˌlīk 

adjective

Phrases

off the shelf

: available from stock : not made to order

off the shelf equipment

on the shelf

: in a state of inactivity or uselessness

Examples of shelf in a Sentence

Put the vase on the shelf.

the top shelf of the kitchen cabinet

Will you get that book down off the shelf?

We don't have much shelf space.

Recent Examples on the Web

At about 5 by 5 inches, the plants are perfect for decorating end tables, night stands, and shelves, too. —Lauren Taylor, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Apr. 2024

Both the shelves and the frame feature scalloped edges for a charming, decorative look. —Bridget Degnan, Southern Living, 4 Apr. 2024

Long considered more of a chore than a luxury, applying sunscreen has newfound appeal, thanks in part to the latest formulas on the shelves. —Deanna Pai, Vogue, 3 Apr. 2024

The triangular ladder shelf has a solid wood frame with five tiers. —Clara McMahon, Peoplemag, 31 Mar. 2024

Grocers report that functional beverages are vying for prime shelf space traditionally occupied by sodas, bottled water, and even alcohol. —Yasmin Tayag, The Atlantic, 28 Mar. 2024

Add plenty of vertical storage to your office with this ladder-style bookcase that comes with four open shelves and a matching drawer. —Toni Sutton, Peoplemag, 23 Mar. 2024

According to the report, employees’ water bottles were on a prep table and dry storage shelves, in both cases next to food. —Jacqueline Pinedo, Sacramento Bee, 22 Mar. 2024

Pull items out of the closet and wipe down the shelves. —Dominique Fluker, Essence, 21 Mar. 2024

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing shelf

• shelf fungus
• ice shelf
• shelf life
• sulfur shelf
• shelf ice
• top-shelf
• shelf-stable
• off the shelf
• continental shelf
• on the shelf

Kids Definition

shelf

noun

ˈshelf 

plural shelves ˈshelvz 

1

: a flat piece (as of wood or metal) set parallel to and above a floor (as on a wall or in a bookcase) to hold objects

2

: something (as a sandbar or ledge of rock) that suggests a shelf

shelflike

ˈshel-ˌflīk 

adjective