\Shears\, n. pl. [Formerly used also in the singular. See
{Shear}, n., 1.]
1. A cutting instrument. Specifically:
   (a) An instrument consisting of two blades, commonly with
       bevel edges, connected by a pivot, and working on both
       sides of the material to be cut, -- used for cutting
       cloth and other substances.
             Fate urged the shears, and cut the sylph in
             twain.                            --Pope.
   (b) A similar instrument the blades of which are
       extensions of a curved spring, -- used for shearing
       sheep or skins.
   (c) A shearing machine; a blade, or a set of blades,
       working against a resisting edge.
2. Anything in the form of shears. Specifically:
   (a) A pair of wings. [Obs.] --Spenser.
   (b) An apparatus for raising heavy weights, and especially
       for stepping and unstepping the lower masts of ships.
       It consists of two or more spars or pieces of timber,
       fastened together near the top, steadied by a guy or
       guys, and furnished with the necessary tackle.
       [Written also {sheers}.]
3. (Mach.) The bedpiece of a machine tool, upon which a table
   or slide rest is secured; as, the shears of a lathe or
   planer. See Illust. under {Lathe}.
{Rotary shears}. See under {Rotary}.