shelf
word
Definition
A shelf is a flat board or surface attached to a wall or inside a cupboard, cabinet, or bookcase, used for holding things. It can also refer to a natural flat area of rock.
Usage & Nuances
Most often used for furniture and storage: 'a bookshelf', 'a kitchen shelf', 'put it on the top shelf'. 'Shelves' is the plural, with a different pronunciation. In shops, 'on the shelf' can mean available for sale, and figuratively something can be 'put on the shelf' when it is not being used or continued.
Example Sentences
The books are on the shelf.
basic
I put the cup on the top shelf.
basic
This shelf is too small for the box.
basic
Can you grab the pasta sauce from the middle shelf?
natural
We need another shelf in the bathroom for towels.
natural
That idea has been sitting on the shelf for months.
natural