sheer
|sheer|
🇺🇸
/ʃɪr/
🇬🇧
/ʃɪə/
complete, pure
Etymology
'sheer' originates from Middle English, specifically the word 'schere,' where 'schere' meant 'pure, clear.'
'schere' transformed into the modern English word 'sheer' through gradual phonetic changes.
Initially, it meant 'pure or clear,' but over time it evolved to include meanings like 'complete' and 'very steep.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
complete and without restriction or qualification; sometimes used informally as intensifiers.
The sheer size of the building was overwhelming.
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Adjective 2
very steep; almost vertical.
The sheer cliff face was daunting to climb.
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Adjective 3
(of a fabric) very thin; diaphanous.
She wore a sheer dress to the party.
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Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45