from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Shears \Shears\, n. pl. [Formerly used also in the singular. See
{Shear}, n., 1.]
1. A cutting instrument. Specifically:
(a) An instrument consisting of two blades, commonly with
bevel edges, connected by a pivot, and working on both
sides of the material to be cut, -- used for cutting
cloth and other substances.
[1913 Webster]
Fate urged the shears, and cut the sylph in
twain. --Pope.
[1913 Webster]
(b) A similar instrument the blades of which are
extensions of a curved spring, -- used for shearing
sheep or skins.
(c) A shearing machine; a blade, or a set of blades,
working against a resisting edge.
[1913 Webster]
2. Anything in the form of shears. Specifically:
(a) A pair of wings. [Obs.] --Spenser.
(b) An apparatus for raising heavy weights, and especially
for stepping and unstepping the lower masts of ships.
It consists of two or more spars or pieces of timber,
fastened together near the top, steadied by a guy or
guys, and furnished with the necessary tackle.
[Written also {sheers}.]
[1913 Webster]
3. (Mach.) The bedpiece of a machine tool, upon which a table
or slide rest is secured; as, the shears of a lathe or
planer. See Illust. under {Lathe}.
[1913 Webster]
{Rotary shears}. See under {Rotary}.
[1913 Webster]