Stake (@stāk), 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 lo@op, 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.