shelving

1 of 3

noun (1)

shelv·​ing ˈshel-viŋ How to pronounce shelving (audio)
Synonyms of shelvingnext
1
: a sloping surface or place
2
: the state or degree of sloping

shelving

2 of 3

noun (2)

1
: material for shelves
2
: shelves

shelving

3 of 3

present participle of shelve

Examples of shelving in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Some cabinetry and shelving provide storage, and quartz counters round out the space. — New Atlas, 6 Sep. 2026 All rooms are wheelchair accessible with 36-inch wide interior doors; lowered peepholes, closet rods, and shelving; and ADA-compliant transfer or roll-in showers. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Sep. 2026 Everything inside Olive Tree is on sale as Riley tries to empty out the storefront, including the shop’s tables, shelving, displays, baskets and decor. — Noelle Alviz-Gransee, Kansas City Star, 2 Sep. 2026 Open Shelving Install open shelving sparingly, advises interior designer Rebekah Murphy. — Kristin Hohenadel, The Spruce, 2 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shelving

Word History

First Known Use

Noun (1)

1678, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun (2)

1817, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shelving was in 1678

Rhymes for shelving

See All Rhymes for shelving

Browse Nearby Words

shelver
shelving
shelvy
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Cite this Entry

“Shelving.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shelving. Accessed 7 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

shelving

noun
shelv·​ing
ˈshel-viŋ
: material to make shelves from
also : the shelves themselves

More from Merriam-Webster on shelving

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