shell out

verb

shelled out; shelling out; shells out
Synonyms of shell outnext
: pay

Examples of shell out in a Sentence

we shelled out an obscene amount of money for those concert tickets
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.
However, that push then prompted groups linked to Anthropic as well as crypto billionaire Chris Laren to shell out millions in support of Bores. Elena Moore, NPR, 24 June 2026 Despite shelling out their second-largest salary on the team – behind only Doncic – the Lakers’ amount of wiggle room remains the same heading into unrestricted free agency next week. Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 24 June 2026 Live sports has also been a major draw for Cosm, with fans willing to shell out up to $100 per person for top events via the company’s dynamic pricing model. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 24 June 2026 The overhaul required employers to shell out $100,000 for each application, up from around $5,000 previously. Tristan Bove, Fortune, 24 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for shell out

Word History

First Known Use

1801, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shell out was in 1801

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shell out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shell%20out. Accessed 29 Jun. 2026.

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