Definition of the word shear

The word "shear" originated from the Old Norse word "skjara," which meant "to cut off" or "to split." This word was brought to England by Viking invaders in the 9th and 10th centuries. In Old English, the word "sceran" was used to mean "to cut" or "to divide," and it was originally used to describe the act of cutting fur or wool from animals. Over time, the word evolved to refer specifically to cutting or removing these materials using machine tools, such as shears, to produce various textiles and clothing items. Today, the term "shearing" is also used in reference to the annual shearing of sheep, where the fleece or wool is cut off for use in a variety of products.