How Do You Spell PLOWSHARES?

Pronunciation: [plˈa͡ʊʃe͡əz] (IPA)

The word "plowshares" is spelled with a "w" instead of a "v" even though it might seem more intuitive to spell it as "ploughshares." This is because the word has its roots in the Old English word "plow," which was spelled with a "w" and eventually evolved into "plow" with a "w" in American English. As for the "z" sound in "plowshares," it is represented by the letter "s" because it follows the letter "h." In IPA transcription, the word is spelled /plaʊʃɛrz/.

PLOWSHARES Meaning and Definition

1. Plowshares is a noun that refers to the heavy, typically iron or steel, cutting blades fixed in the front of a plow, which are used to turn over and break up the soil in order to prepare it for planting crops. Plowshares are an essential component of a plow, a farming tool used for centuries to cultivate land, and are often curved or pointed to efficiently cut through the earth.

   In a metaphorical sense, plowshares symbolize peaceful and constructive purposes that contrast with the destructive nature of weapons. This association originates from the biblical phrase "beat swords into plowshares," which appears in the Book of Isaiah. The phrase emphasizes the transformation of weapons, specifically swords, which embody violence and warfare, into agricultural tools that serve a productive and peaceful purpose.

   The metaphorical usage of plowshares emphasizes the idea of disarmament and the pursuit of peace instead of conflict. It suggests the redirection of resources, skills, and efforts towards goals that promote well-being and prosperity rather than violence and destruction. Consequently, "beating swords into plowshares" is often used to advocate for disarmament and peaceful resolutions in conflicts and to symbolize a shift from hostilities to cooperation and harmony between nations.

   Overall, plowshares are not only physical blades used in agriculture but also embody a powerful symbol of peace, cooperation, and a transition from destructive activities to productive ones.

Common Misspellings for PLOWSHARES

• ploghshares
• plougshares
• Pluhshares

Etymology of PLOWSHARES

The word "plowshares" originates from Old English, specifically from the combination of two words: "plow" (also spelled "plough") and "shares". "Plow" comes from the Old English word "plōh" which meant a plow, an agricultural implement used for breaking up soil in preparation for sowing seeds. "Shares" is derived from the Old English word "scēar" or "scear" which referred to the cutting or digging part of a plow. Combining these two words, "plowshares" is used metaphorically to symbolize peace or peaceful intentions, particularly as a reference to the biblical phrase "beating swords into plowshares".