What is the meaning of Stead?

A place, or spot, in general.

A place where a person normally rests; a seat.

An inhabited place; a settlement, city, town etc.

An estate, a property with its grounds; a farm; a homestead.

The frame on which a bed is laid; a bedstead.

The position or function (of someone or something), as taken on by a successor.

An emotional or circumstantial "place" having specified advantages, qualities etc. (now only in phrases).

To help, support, benefit or assist; to be helpful.

To fill the stead or place of something.

One's partner in a romantic relationship.

Source: wiktionary.org