shifter

noun

shift·​er ˈshif-tər 

: one that shifts

especially : gearshift

Examples of shifter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

While grabbing gears with the Can-Am’s paddle shifters is fun, the Polaris’ CVT can adjust lickety-split to accelerate straight away. — Caleb Jacobs, The Drive, 2 Nov. 2026

The two-seat cabin is covered almost in lush white upholstery with blue trim and machined details, including its gear shifter (more on that in a moment) and many physical buttons and switches. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 2 Nov. 2026

And for the novice, manual shifters came with a good deal of hill anxiety. — Jody Mamone, Hartford Courant, 14 Sep. 2026

My zero-mile review Slingshot came with a five-speed manual gearbox (highly recommended), but an auto with paddle shifters is also available. — William Roberson, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1571, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing shifter

• shape-shifter

Rhymes for shifter

• drifter
• lifter
• sifter
• swifter

Kids Definition

shifter

noun

shift·​er ˈshif-tər 

: one that shifts

especially : gearshift