shoo-in

noun

ˈshü-ˌin 

: one that is a certain and easy winner

Synonyms of shoo-in

• lock
• certainty
• lead-pipe cinch
• sure thing
• cinch

Examples of shoo-in in a Sentence

a shoo-in for the position of secretary of state

Recent Examples on the Web

If awards voters value horror or comedy, McAdams will be a shoo-in for her second career nomination (after getting recognized for 2015’s Spotlight). — Joe Reid, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2026

Behind Stewart and Wilson, no other player seems more of a shoo-in for the Olympic roster than Young. — Chantel Jennings, New York Times, 14 Sep. 2026

Not every piece of clothing is a shoo-in for Ripa’s approval though. — Michelle Lee, PEOPLE, 8 Sep. 2026

That film, which won the Silver Lion, was considered a shoo-in for the festival’s top award after its 22-minute standing ovation, which stands as the fest’s longest. — Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 28 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for shoo-in

• akin
• auxin
• buckskin
• chagrin
• crankpin
• deerskin
• foreskin
• fuchsin
• herein
• kingpin
• linchpin
• pigskin

Kids Definition

shoo-in

noun

ˈshü-ˌin

: one that is a certain and easy winner