shear vs sheer

Definitions

noun

1. (physics) a deformation of an object in which parallel planes remain parallel but are shifted in a direction parallel to themselves
2. a large edge tool that cuts sheet metal by passing a blade through it

verb

1. shear the wool from
2. cut or cut through with shears
3. cut with shears
4. become deformed by forces tending to produce a shearing strain

Examples

The lower mandible, which is powerful, and is indented at its point to receive the hook, has a very sharp edge, which, with that of the upper mandible, constitutes a pair of formidable shears.

Typical mesocyclonic tornadoes are caused by intense thunderstorms with appropriate vertical and directional wind shear.

Slow the airplane to reduce impact forces; also, you'll likely encounter wind shear and strong downdrafts.

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Definitions

adjective

1. very steep; having a prominent and almost vertical front
2. so thin as to transmit light
3. not mixed with extraneous elements
4. complete and without restriction or qualification; sometimes used informally as intensifiers

adverb

1. directly
2. straight up or down without a break

verb

1. cause to sheer
2. turn sharply; change direction abruptly

Examples

The sheer volume is so overwhelming that the police cannot get on top of it.

Among profuse schools of trevallies and barracuda, huge tunas and a host of sharks cruise the sheer wall.

In what is called our freer modern life, manners have come to count for a good deal less, which makes sheer manner count for a good deal more.

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