on the shelf

phrase

Synonyms of on the shelfnext
: in a state of inactivity or uselessness

Examples of on the shelf in a Sentence

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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.
Once a film is actually on the shelf, that same audience interest becomes data a filmmaker can use. — Joshua Encinias, IndieWire, 21 Aug. 2026 He was promoted to the Raw brand after WrestleMania 40 but a torn ACL injury kept him on the shelf for a year. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 20 Aug. 2026 It had been sandwiched on the shelf between Belle Burden’s Strangers and Caro Claire Burke’s Yesteryear. — Air Mail, 15 Aug. 2026 And the roaches on the dishwashing area shelves left over 100 droppings on the shelf and metal containers. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for on the shelf

Rhymes for on the shelf

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Browse Nearby Words

on the scent of
on the shelf
on the side
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Cite this Entry

“On the shelf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20the%20shelf. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

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