Meaning & Definition of word "Shrug"

Shrug

/ʃrʌg/

noun:

  • 1. A gesture made by raising and lowering the shoulders.
    • Example: His shrug indicated that he didn't care about the outcome.

verb:

  • 1. To raise and lower the shoulders to express doubt, indifference, or lack of knowledge.
    • Example: When asked if he knew where the missing keys were, he just shrugged.
  • 2. To disregard or minimize the importance of something.
    • Example: She shrugged off the criticism, confident in her abilities.

Etymology

Middle English shroggen, probably of Scandinavian origin; akin to Old Norse skrugga.

Common Phrases and Expressions

shrug it off:

To dismiss something as unimportant.

give a shrug:

To respond with indifference or uncertainty.

Related Words

gesture:

A movement of the body or limbs that expresses an idea or feeling.

indifference:

Lack of interest, concern, or sympathy.

Slang Meanings of shrug

Meaning: IDK

Example Sentence: When I asked where we should go for dinner, he just shrugged and said, 'IDK.'

Meaning: Whatever

Example Sentence: She was frustrated with the situation but ultimately just shrugged, saying 'Whatever.'