Definition

• n. - An inclined plane, either artificial or natural, down which timber, coal, etc., are caused to slide; also, a narrow passage, either natural or artificial, in a stream, where the water rushes rapidly; esp., a channel, having a swift current, connecting the ends of a bend in the stream, so as to shorten the course.
• v. i. - To let fly, or cause to be driven, with force, as an arrow or a bullet; -- followed by a word denoting the missile, as an object.
• v. i. - To discharge, causing a missile to be driven forth; -- followed by a word denoting the weapon or instrument, as an object; -- often with off; as, to shoot a gun.
• v. i. - To strike with anything shot; to hit with a missile; often, to kill or wound with a firearm; -- followed by a word denoting the person or thing hit, as an object.
• v. i. - To send out or forth, especially with a rapid or sudden motion; to cast with the hand; to hurl; to discharge; to emit.
• v. i. - To push or thrust forward; to project; to protrude; -- often with out; as, a plant shoots out a bud.