How Do You Spell PLOUGHSHARE?
Pronunciation: [plˈa͡ʊʃe͡ə] (IPA) 
Pronunciation: [plˈa͡ʊʃe͡ə] (IPA)
A ploughshare refers to the cutting or digging blade of a plough, which is a farming tool utilized for turning over soil in order to create furrows for the planting of seeds or seedlings. It is an essential component positioned at the bottom of the plough, typically made from hardened steel or iron. The ploughshare is responsible for breaking up the earth and cutting through the soil, facilitating irrigation, removing weeds or unwanted vegetation, and preparing the ground for cultivation.
Characteristically, a ploughshare bears a sharp edge and a pointed or curved shape that enables it to effectively slice through the soil, turning it over in a controlled manner. The shape and size of the ploughshare may vary based on the specific type of plough, as different designs are suited for different soil conditions, terrains, and purposes.
Historically, the ploughshare has played a crucial role in agriculture, significantly enhancing farming practices by enabling efficient land preparation and cultivation. Due to its vital function, the term "ploughshare" has also come to symbolize peace and agricultural productivity, often used metaphorically to represent endeavors or initiatives aimed at promoting harmony, collaboration, and sustainable development.
The blade or iron plate in a plough which cuts the bottom of the furrow and raises a slice to the mould-board, which turns the earth over-the blade in front of the share is called the coulter.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "ploughshare" has its origins in Old English. The term combines the word "plough" (also spelt "plow") and "share". "Plough" is derived from the Old English word "plōh", which refers to a plough for tilling the soil. "Share", on the other hand, comes from the Old English word "scear", which means a cutting instrument or a plough blade. The combination of these two words creates "ploughshare", which specifically refers to the cutting blade or the curved metal part of a plough that turns the soil.
