shaft

//ʃæft//
B2Frequency Level 9Neutral
Visual representation of shaft

Noun

shaftSingular
shaftsPlural
1

A long, narrow pole or rod, especially one forming the handle of a tool or weapon.

The shaft of the hammer was made of solid oak.

2

A ray or beam of light.

A shaft of sunlight came through the window.

3

A vertical passage or opening in a building or mine, used for access or ventilation.

The elevator shaft runs through the center of the building.

4

A rotating rod that transmits power or motion in a machine.

The drive shaft transmits power from the engine to the wheels.

5

The long stem of an arrow or spear.

The archer examined the shaft of the arrow before shooting.

Verb

shaftInfinitive
shaftsPresent tense
shaftedPast tense
shaftedPast participle
shaftingPresent participle
shaftsThird-person singular
1

To treat someone unfairly or harshly; to cheat or swindle.

The company shafted its employees by cutting their benefits without warning.