Main Entry: ¹shot

Pronunciation: \ˈshät\

Function: noun

Etymology: Middle English, from Old English sceot, scot; akin to Old High German scuz, Old Norse skot shot, Old English scēotan to shoot — more at shoot

Date: before 12th century

1 a : an action of shooting b : a directed propelling of a missile; specifically : a directed discharge of a firearm c (1) : a stroke or throw in an attempt to score points in a game (as tennis, pool, or basketball); also : home run (2) : ability to shoot <has the best shot on the team> d : blast 5a e : a medical or narcotics injection
2 a plural shot : something propelled by shooting; especially : small lead or steel pellets especially forming a charge for a shotgun b : a metal sphere of iron or brass that is heaved in the shot put
3 a : the distance that a missile is or can be thrown b : range, reach
4 : a charge to be paid : scot
5 : one that shoots; especially : marksman
6 a : attempt, try <give it a shot> b : guess, conjecture c : chance 4a <a shot at winning the prize> d : a single appearance as an entertainer <did a guest shot for the program>
7 : an effective remark; especially : swipe 2 <a parting shot>
8 a : a single photographic exposure; especially : snapshot b : a single sequence of a motion picture or a television program shot by one camera without interruption
9 : a charge of explosives
10 a : a small measure or serving (as one ounce) of undiluted liquor or other beverage <vodka shots> <a shot of espresso> b : a small amount applied at one time : dose <a shot of fertilizer> <a shot of humor>
11shot plural : sprinkles, jimmies

— a shot : for each one : apiece

— like a shot : very rapidly

— shot in the arm : stimulus, boost

— shot in the dark 1 : a wild guess
2 : an attempt that has little chance of success