crease
UK[kriːs]US[kriːs]
n
A line on cloth, paper, etc. where it has been folded, pressed, or crushed.
v
To make a line or lines appear on cloth, paper, etc. by folding or crushing it.
Etymology
The origin of 'crease' is somewhat obscure but is most likely an alteration of the earlier word 'crest', which came into Middle English from Old French 'creste', ultimately from Latin 'crista' meaning 'tuft' or 'plume'. The semantic shift from a raised ridge or line (like a crest) to a line made by folding is logical. Another possibility is its derivation from the Old English 'cryscan', meaning 'to crush'. By the late 16th century, 'crease' had established its specific modern meaning related to a line made in fabric or paper, capturing the concept of a permanent mark formed by pressure or folding.
Analysis
The word 'crease' is a simplex word of uncertain origin, likely entering English as a variant or alteration of an earlier term. It is not productively formed from distinct, separable morphemes in modern English.
Examples
He carefully ironed his shirt to remove every crease.
Be careful not to crease the pages of the book.
The bowler aimed for the crease, the line marking the batsman's territory.