Word Study
stemple
CIDE DICTIONARY
stemple, n. [G. stempel a stamp, a prop, akin to E. stamp.].
A crossbar of wood in a shaft, serving as a step. [1913 Webster]
OXFORD DICTIONARY
stemple, n. each of several crossbars in a mineshaft serving as supports or steps.
Etymology
17th c.: orig. uncert.: cf. MHG stempfel
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