Historical literature allows contemporaries to learn something about the life of their ancestors, fiction gives the opportunity to plunge into the world of adventure and feel like heroes. And both formats open up a world of entertaining terms for a person, which are not so easy to hear in the 21st century. Studying heraldry or trying to replicate your favorite character's weapon? You will definitely come across the definition of "shaft". This simple word often causes considerable difficulties. Where did it come from and in what situations is it appropriate?
Slavic etymology
You can track the origin by the root. Superficial morphemic analysis instantly brings to concepts:
- tree;
- tree.
The first is considered relevant today, while the second has long since fallen into disuse. And here lies the key point! From Old Slavonic "tree" is translated into Russian as "stick". And the term under study is just a word form with a diminutive suffix -k-.
Many shapes
What does the speaker mean? In various dictionaries, the definition forthe shaft varies. Initially, they meant a long pole of circular cross section, to which it is attached:
- cloth of a flag, banner, other distinguishing sign;
- metal elements of spears, gaffs, arrows, other weapons.
The original piece was made of wood, hence the name, but today the choice is much richer. Take as a basis:
- metals and alloys;
- composite materials;
- plastic;
- cardboard etc.
No binding to the degree of processing. Couldn't find a carefully polished, absolutely even and perfectly proportioned pole? In this case, they can take the first stick that comes across or cut off a branch. The only condition is that the improvised support must be securely connected to the element to be fixed and fit comfortably in the hand of the standard-bearer or warrior. And for state symbols on the walls of fortresses, full-fledged thick bars were often used.
Consumer version
However, the original interpretation has existed for many years, and a huge number of instruments have this shaft. There is a partial convergence with the "stalk, handle." Appropriate for items such as:
- shovel;
- axe;
- forks, etc.
Therefore, if suddenly, under the supervision of a specialist, you get acquainted with carpentry or housekeeping in a village, be guided by the name: what to grab onto so as not to spoil anything.
Casualcommunication
If you're not a flag bearer, don't do archery, and generally prefer to stay away from tools, don't worry. The concept is specific, more often appears within the framework of sports and military events, but even there it has a very narrow scope. Fix it in your memory so that you can understand what they are talking about, and with the help of a little historical background, show off your erudition!
