Shānk, n.

n. [A-S. scanc, sceanc, sconс, sceonc, scanca, sceanca, Dan. & Sw. skank, O. H. Ger. scinca, scinkel, N. H. Ger. schenkel, Up. Ger. schinkel, D. schenkel, schinkel; D. schonk, a bone.] 1. The lower joint of the leg from the knee to the foot; the shin; hence, sometimes, the bone of the leg; the whole leg. His youthful hose, well saved, a world too wide For his shrunk shank. Shak.

2. Hence, that part of an instrument, tool, or other thing, which connects the acting part with a handle or other part, by which it is held or moved; as, specifically, (a.) That part of a key which is between the bow and the part which enters the wards of the lock. (b.) That part of an anchor which is between the ring and the arms. Totten. (c.) That part of a hoe, rake, knife, and the like, by which it is secured to a handle. (d.) The eye of a button.
3. (Arch.) The space between two channels of the Doric triglyph. Gwill.
4. (Founding.) A large ladle moved by means of bars.
5. (Print.) The body of a type.
6. (Bot.) A plant of the genus Bryonia.