Pronunciation: [ʃˈi͡ə] (IPA) 
The word "sheer" is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ʃɪr/. The initial "sh" sound is represented by the "sh" letter combination, while the "ee" sound is spelled using the "ee" vowel combination. The final "r" sound is pronounced but not always written in words like "sheer," which is called a silent consonant. This word means transparent or very thin and can also refer to an abrupt or sudden change in direction or action.
The word "sheer" is a versatile adjective that can be defined in multiple ways, depending on the context in which it is used. In its primary sense, "sheer" refers to something being absolute, complete, or unmitigated, often suggesting pure or undiluted quality. For instance, if an individual displays sheer determination, it indicates that they possess an unwavering and resolute commitment towards achieving a particular goal.
"Sheer" can also describe something as being very steep or almost vertical. Applied to physical objects or surfaces, it implies towering height or extreme upright inclination. For example, a cliff face can be described as sheer if it has a sharp, precipitous, and near-90-degree angle.
Additionally, "sheer" can denote something being transparent or diaphanous. This interpretation is often employed to describe thin, delicate fabrics that allow light to pass through them. A garment made from sheer material may be see-through or translucent, providing a subtle glimpse of the skin beneath.
In figurative terms, "sheer" can convey a sense of astonishment, emphasizing the seemingly unbelievable or improbable nature of an event or outcome. It is commonly used to express shock or surprise at the sheer audacity of a statement or action.
In summary, "sheer" encompasses several definitions, including absolute or complete, steep or vertical, transparent or diaphanous, and astonishment or disbelief. Its usage varies widely across different domains, emphasizing the adaptability and versatility of the term.
• Pure; separate from anything else; mere; unmingled.
• Perpendicular; straight up and down.
• The longitudinal curve or line which a ship's deck or sides presents to the eye.
• Among seamen, to deviate from the line of the proper course, as a ship when not well steered; to turn aside.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "sheer" has origins in Old English and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word *skīrjōną. This word had a basic meaning of "clear" or "pure". In Middle English, it evolved into "shere" and then "scheer", retaining its original meaning. Over time, the spelling shifted to "sheer" by the 16th century, but the pronunciation remained relatively unchanged. Today, "sheer" is used to describe things that are transparent, pure, or extremely steep.
