Definition of reeve

• n. - The female of the ruff.
• v. t. - To pass, as the end of a pope, through any hole in a block, thimble, cleat, ringbolt, cringle, or the like.
• n. - an officer, steward, bailiff, or governor; -- used chiefly in compounds; as, shirereeve, now written sheriff; portreeve, etc.