shelf (A1)

noun

Pronunciation: /ʃɛlf/

Definition

A flat, horizontal board fixed to a wall or in a frame, used for holding or storing things.

Examples

• She placed the vase on the top shelf.

• The books are arranged neatly on the shelf.

• He built a new shelf in the closet for extra storage.

How to Use shelf

on the shelf (prepositional phrase)

Located on a shelf. — "The picture frame is on the shelf."

off the shelf (prepositional phrase)

Readily available; not specially made. — "We bought a ready-made desk off the shelf."

Synonyms of shelf

Words with a similar meaning to shelf:

• ledge
• rack
• board
• surface

Antonyms of shelf

Words with the opposite meaning to shelf:

• floor
• space

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