1
: one that shakes: such as
a
: a utensil or machine used in shaking
cocktail shaker
b
: one that incites, promotes, or directs action
a mover and shaker
2
Shaker [from a dance with shaking movements performed as part of worship] : a member of a millenarian sect originating in England in 1747 and practicing celibacy and an ascetic communal life
Shaker adjective

Examples of shaker in a Sentence

a member of the Shakers
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While Garcia runs a steady takeout business, there are a handful of tables inside, with chili flakes in shakers and rolls of paper towel for napkins. Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026 Aperol Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake for six to 10 seconds. Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 4 July 2026 To a cocktail shaker filled halfway with ice, add tequila, fresh watermelon juice or purée, the juice of one lime, agave nectar, and fresh mint. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 June 2026 At a dinner table in the Paca House, a representation of a spring meal sits on the table with original monogrammed silver condiment shakers. Ava Berger, NPR, 28 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for shaker

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shaker was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shaker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shaker. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

1
: a utensil or machine used in shaking
2
capitalized : a member of a religious group originating in England and practicing a communal life

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