Stake (?), n. [AS. staca, from the root of E. stick; akin to OFries. & LG. stake, D. staak, Sw. stake, Dan. stage. See Stick, v. t., and cf. Estacade, Stockade.]
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.
Dryden.
2.
A stick inserted upright in a lop, 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.
At stake, in danger; hazarded; pledged. "I see my reputation is at stake." Shak.
© Webster 1913
Stake, v. t. [imp. & p. p. Staked (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Staking.]
1.
To fasten, support, or defend with stakes; as, to stake vines or plants.
2.
To mark the limits of by stakes; -- with out; as, to stake out land; to stake out a new road.
3.
To put at hazard upon the issue of competition, or upon a future contingency; to wager; to pledge.
I'll stake yon lamb, that near the fountain plays.
Pope.
4.
To pierce or wound with a stake. Spectator.
© Webster 1913
Stake, n. (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.
Schaff-Herzog Encyc.
© Webster 1913