leaf

leaf · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A flat, typically green structure attached to a plant stem that captures sunlight for photosynthesis.

  2. 2.

    A sheet of paper, especially in a book.

  3. 3.

    A hinged or removable section of a table.

  4. 4.

    A very thin sheet of metal.

Forms

plural: leaves

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    turn over a new leaf — to start behaving better
  • •
    take a leaf out of someone's book — to follow someone's example
  • •
    leaf through — to turn pages quickly, browsing
  • •
    shake like a leaf — to tremble with fear or cold

Related words

Antonyms: root, stem
See also: foliage, leaves, tree
Synonyms: blade, foliage, frond

Etymology

From Old English leaf ("leaf, page of a book"), from Proto-Germanic laubaz. Related to German Laub ("foliage").