Meaning & Definition of word "Shift"

Shift

/ʃɪft/

1. a change in position, direction, or tendency.
- Example: There has been a noticeable shift in public opinion.
2. a scheduled working period.
- Example: She works the night shift at the hospital.
3. a change in gears or the mechanism used to change gears in a vehicle.
- Example: The driver had to make a quick shift to avoid the obstacle.

1. to move or change from one position or direction to another.
- Example: She decided to shift her focus from studying to working.
2. to change in position, direction, or tendency.
- Example: The economy has shifted towards more sustainable practices.
3. to transfer something from one place, position, or situation to another.
- Example: He shifted the boxes to make room for the new furniture.

Middle English: shiften, of unknown origin.

shift gears:

To change one's approach or method.

shift the blame:

To pass responsibility to another.

shift into high gear:

To start to work more quickly or efficiently.

shiftless:

Characterized by a lack of ambition or willingness to work.

shiftwork:

A system of working in shifts.

shifty:

Having a deceptive or evasive quality.

Meaning: To leave or to depart quickly.

Example Sentence: He's going to shift out of here before the party ends.

Meaning: To change one's focus or intentions.

Example Sentence: She shifted her priorities after realizing her goals.