Shaft Definition & Meaning

shaft
noun
  1. a line that forms the length of an arrow pointer
  2. an aggressive remark directed at a person like a missile and intended to have a telling effect; "his parting shot was `drop dead'"; "she threw shafts of sarcasm"; "she takes a dig at me every chance she gets"
  3. a long rod or pole (especially the handle of an implement or the body of a weapon like a spear or arrow)
  4. a column of light (as from a beacon)
  5. the main (mid) section of a long bone
  6. obscene terms for penis
  7. a long pointed rod used as a tool or weapon
  8. a vertical passageway through a building (as for an elevator)
  9. (architecture) upright consisting of the vertical part of a column
  10. a long vertical passage sunk into the earth, as for a mine or tunnel
  11. a revolving rod that transmits power or motion
  12. the hollow spine of a feather
verb
  1. equip with a shaft
  2. defeat someone through trickery or deceit

"Shaft" in song lyrics

See how shaft is used in real songs:

  • "then headed for the elevator shaft"
    Aceyalone — B-Boy Kingdom
  • "of the rugged block avenger on a mission like Shaft"
    Akrobatik — SayYesSayWord
  • "Little cigar, bootleg version of Shaft"
    American Cream Team — More, More, More

Usage tips for "shaft"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "shaft" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for shaft to find words that pair well.

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