3. That which resembles in some degree the stem or handle of an arrow
or a spear; a long, slender part, especially when cylindrical.
Specifically: (a) (Bot.) The trunk, stem, or stalk of a plant. (b)
(Zoöl.) The stem or midrib of a feather. See Illust. of Feather. (c)
The pole, or tongue, of a vehicle; also, a thill. (d) The part of a
candlestick which supports its branches.
Thou shalt make a candlestick of pure gold . . . his shaft, and his
branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the
same.
Ex. xxv. 31.
(e) The handle or helve of certain tools, instruments, etc., as a
hammer, a whip, etc. (f) A pole, especially a Maypole. [Obs.] Stow. (g)
(Arch.) The body of a column; the cylindrical pillar between the
capital and base (see Illust. of Column). Also, the part of a chimney
above the roof. Also, the spire of a steeple. [Obs. or R.] Gwilt. (h) A
column, an obelisk, or other spire-shaped or columnar monument.
Bid time and nature gently spare The shaft we raise to thee.
Emerson.
(i) (Weaving) A rod at the end of a heddle. (j) (Mach.) A solid or
hollow cylinder or bar, having one or more journals on which it rests
and revolves, and intended to carry one or more wheels or other
revolving parts and to transmit power or motion; as, the shaft of a
steam engine. See Illust. of Countershaft.
4. (Zoöl.) A humming bird (Thaumastura cora) having two of the tail
feathers next to the middle ones very long in the male; -- called also
cora humming bird.
5. [Cf. G. schacht.] (Mining) A well-like excavation in the earth,
perpendicular or nearly so, made for reaching and raising ore, for
raising water, etc.