A sheath or sheathing part; spec. the sheath enclosing the ear or straw of corn; the sheath or spathe of an Arum.

That wherewith something is enclosed. An outer covering or case; an envelope.

An enclosing case or cover.

A casing, a covering.

transferred and figurative. Something that encases or encloses; a covering, envelope; (in various spec. uses, as) the case of a chrysalis; plural…

That which encases; receptacle, covering, sheath.

A sheath-like covering. Applied to various animal and vegetable structures. The fold of skin into which the claws of a feline animal are retracted.

concrete. Something that encases.

Work comprising a case, casing; esp. the decorative outer case that protects the workings of a complex mechanism such as an organ or harpsichord.

Mechanics. A covering or casing (as of felt or timber), applied to prevent radiation of heat, or to give increased security.

gen. A covering or envelope in which something is encased for protection or ornament; material prepared for use as an envelope or casing. Chiefly in…