is generally used for a place; as, it lies in such a stead, i. e. in such a place : whereas elsewhere only IN STEAD, is made use of for IN PLACE, or in the room of.
·vt To fill place of. II. Stead ·noun A farmhouse and offices. III. Stead ·noun Place, or spot, in...
Webster's Dictionary of the English Language
An old name for the bed of a river. ...
The Sailor's Word-Book
A ford in a river. ...