to cut the wool off a sheep or other animal. Every spring, the farmers shear the sheep to collect their wool.
to break off or cause to break off, owing to a structural strain. The metal rod will shear if too much pressure is applied.
to cut or trim something, especially hair or grass. The gardener sheared the hedges to keep them neat and tidy.
to strip or deprive someone or something of an attribute, possession, or capability, as if by cutting away The reforms sheared the committee of much of its authority.