Sick'le, n.

(sĭk′l), n. [A-S. sicol, sicel, D. sik-kel, L. Ger. sekel, Dan. segel, segl, O. H. Ger. sikhila, N. H. Ger. sikkel, Lat. secula, from secare, to cut, Gr. ἅρπη, ἅρπων, originally a Sicilian word.] A reaping-hook; a hooked instrument with teeth, used for cutting grain.

When corn has once felt the sickle, it has no more benefit from the sunshine. South.