Definitions

1. noun

the soft, thick undercoat of a sheep or other animal, especially when taken off and used for making wool

“The farmer carefully sheared the sheep, collecting its soft fleece.”

2. verb

to cheat or swindle someone, especially by overcharging or exploiting them

“The unscrupulous merchant tried to fleece the tourists, selling them overpriced souvenirs.”

3. verb

to take something, especially wool or hair, from an animal

“The shepherds would often fleece the sheep at the beginning of winter to keep them warm.”

4. noun

a thick layer of something, especially wool or hair

“The warm fleece on her coat kept her cozy during the cold winter days.”