from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Stake \Stake\ (st[=a]k), n. [AS. staca, from the root of E.
stick; akin to OFries. & LG. stake, D. staak, Sw. stake, Dan.
stage. See {Stick}, v. t., and cf. {Estacade}, {Stockade}.]
1. A piece of wood, usually long and slender, pointed at one
end so as to be easily driven into the ground as a support
or stay; as, a stake to support vines, fences, hedges,
etc.
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A sharpened stake strong Dryas found. --Dryden.
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2. A stick inserted upright in a loop, eye, or mortise, at
the side or end of a cart, a flat car, or the like, to
prevent goods from falling off.
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3. The piece of timber to which a martyr was affixed to be
burned; hence, martyrdom by fire.
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4. A small anvil usually furnished with a tang to enter a
hole in a bench top, -- used by tinsmiths, blacksmiths,
etc., for light work, punching upon, etc.
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5. That which is laid down as a wager; that which is staked
or hazarded; a pledge.
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6. (Mormon Ch.) A territorial division; -- called also {stake
of Zion}.
Every city, or "stake," including a chief town and
surrounding towns, has its president, with two
counselors; and this president has a high council of
chosen men. --Schaff-Herzog
Encyc.
[Webster 1913 Suppl.]
{At stake}, in danger; hazarded; pledged. "I see my
reputation is at stake." --Shak.
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