stake of zion

Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)

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. [1913 Webster]

A sharpened stake strong Dryas found.— Dryden.[1913 Webster]

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. [1913 Webster]

3.The piece of timber to which a martyr was affixed to be burned; hence, martyrdom by fire. [1913 Webster]

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. [1913 Webster]

5.That which is laid down as a wager; that which is staked or hazarded; a pledge. [1913 Webster]

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. [1913 Webster]