plowshare

Plowshare, or ploughshare in British spelling, refers to the forward cutting blade of a plow. The plowshare is the part that first enters the soil and is typically made of steel or iron. It is shaped to slice earth cleanly and works in concert with the moldboard, which turns the soil to form a furrow. In modern plows, shares are often replaceable to suit different soils and farming conditions. The term can describe the share itself, the whole plow, or the concept of turning soil to cultivate land.

Etymology and usage: The word derives from the combination of plow (plough) and share, the latter being the cutting edge. Historically, plowshares have evolved from wood or basic metal to hardened steel components designed for durability and efficiency in various soils and climates. In agricultural writing, the plowshare is sometimes cited as the leading edge of soil disturbance.

Cultural and symbolic significance: The phrase beat swords into plowshares originates from biblical Isaiah and has entered common usage as a symbol of converting weapons or military resources into peaceful, productive uses. It is often invoked in discussions of disarmament and post-war reconstruction.

Other notable use: Operation Plowshare was a United States program, active from the late 1950s through the 1970s, that explored peaceful applications for nuclear explosions, including large-scale earth-moving, canal or harbor construction, and other civil engineering projects. While some tests, such as the Sedan crater experiment, demonstrated blast effects, the program faced environmental and safety concerns and was eventually terminated.