English Reference

Word

shelves

US/ˈʃɛɫvz/

UK/ʃˈɛlvz/

Definition

v. to put something on a shelf, or to decide not to continue with a plan for now.

v. the third-person singular present form of 'shelve', meaning to place on a shelf or to postpone a project indefinitely.

Examples

“The books are on the top shelves.”

“We need to install more shelves in the kitchen to store all our spices and jars.”

“The library's towering shelves are packed with rare manuscripts that require climate-controlled conditions to prevent the delicate paper from deteriorating over time.”

Examples

simple

“The books are on the top shelves.”

contextual

“We need to install more shelves in the kitchen to store all our spices and jars.”

complex

“The library's towering shelves are packed with rare manuscripts that require climate-controlled conditions to prevent the delicate paper from deteriorating over time.”

Usage

When used for plans or projects, it implies a temporary or permanent stop.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Idioms

fly off the shelves — To be sold in large quantities, very rapidly.

hit the shelves — To become available for purchase.

This entry

Level
A1 · Beginner
Frequency
Frequent
Updated

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