Stake n.
 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.
    A sharpened stake strong Dryas found.   --Dryden.
 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.
 3. The piece of timber to which a martyr was affixed to be burned; hence, martyrdom by fire.
 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.
 5. That which is laid down as a wager; that which is staked or hazarded; a pledge.
 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.
 At stake, in danger; hazarded; pledged. “I see my reputation is at stake.” --Shak.