The word "shoadstone" refers to a type of iron-rich mineral used in the dyeing process. Its spelling can be a little tricky, as it is based on the Old English word "scead," which means "shade." The "o" in "shoad" is pronounced like the "o" in "boat," while the "a" in "stone" is pronounced like the "a" in "father." In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be spelled /ˈʃoʊd.stoʊn/, with primary stress on the first syllable and secondary stress on the second.
The term "shoadstone" is a noun that typically refers to a special type of grinding stone or whetstone used in the process of sharpening tools, especially scythes and sickles. The word is derived from the Middle English term "shodestone" which originated from the combination of "shode" (meaning "scabbed" or "scabby") and "stone" (indicating a type of rock or mineral utilized in stone-working).
A shoadstone is characterized by its flat, rectangular shape, and its surface is usually made of coarse-grained, hard material like sandstone or quartz. These stones are often used by farmers or agricultural workers to sharpen the blades of their agricultural tools, removing nicks, burrs, or dull spots. They can also be employed for other manual tools like knives or axes.
To use a shoadstone, it is moistened with water and then the blade or edge of the tool is repeatedly stroked along its surface until the desired sharpness is achieved. Due to their durability and efficacy, shoadstones have been widely utilized for centuries, especially in rural and agricultural settings.
In summary, a shoadstone is a specialized grinding or whetstone that is used to sharpen agricultural tools, like scythes or sickles, as well as other cutting implements. These stones are typically flat, rectangular in shape, and made from hard materials such as sandstone or quartz.
A detached fragment of ore.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "shoadstone" is derived from the Middle English word "shoad", which referred to a type of scaly or impure substance found in ores. The term is believed to come from an Old Norse word, "skáð", meaning "harm" or "damage". The addition of "stone" at the end signifies that the substance is in a stone-like or solid form.