The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Stake \Stake\ (st[=a]k), 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.
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            A sharpened stake strong Dryas found. --Dryden.
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   2. A stick inserted upright in a loop, eye, or mortise, at
      the side or end of a cart, a flat car, or the like, to
      prevent goods from falling off.
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   3. The piece of timber to which a martyr was affixed to be
      burned; hence, martyrdom by fire.
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   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.
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   5. That which is laid down as a wager; that which is staked
      or hazarded; a pledge.
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   6. (Mormon Ch.) A territorial division; -- called also stake
      of Zion.

            Every city, or "stake," including a chief town and
            surrounding towns, has its president, with two
            counselors; and this president has a high council of
            chosen men.                           --Schaff-Herzog
                                                  Encyc.
      [Webster 1913 Suppl.]

   At stake, in danger; hazarded; pledged. "I see my
      reputation is at stake." --Shak.
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