1.A piece of wood, usually long and slender, pointed at one end so as to be easily driven into the ground as a support or stay; as, a stake to support vines, fences, hedges, etc. "A sharpened stake strong Dryas found."
2.A stick inserted upright in a loop, eye, or mortise, at the side or end of a cart, a flat car, or the like, to prevent goods from falling off.
3.The piece of timber to which a martyr was affixed to be burned; hence, martyrdom by fire.
4.A small anvil usually furnished with a tang to enter a hole in a bench top, used by tinsmiths, blacksmiths, etc., for light work, punching upon, etc.
5.That which is laid down as a wager; that which is staked or hazarded; a pledge.
6.(Mormon Ch.) A territorial division; called also stake of Zion. "Every city, or "stake," including a chief town and surrounding towns, has its president, with two counselors; and this president has a high council of chosen men."
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