SINCE 1828
should
auxiliary verb
\ shəd, ˈshu̇d
\
\
Definition of should
past tense of shall
1
—used in auxiliary function to express condition if he should leave his father, his father would die — Genesis 44:22 (Revised Standard Version)
2
—used in auxiliary function to express obligation, propriety, or expediency 'tis commanded I should do so— William Shakespearethis is as it should be— H. L. Savageyou should brush your teeth after each meal
3
—used in auxiliary function to express futurity from a point of view in the past realized that she should have to do most of her farm work before sunrise— Ellen Glasgow
4
—used in auxiliary function to express what is probable or expected with an early start, they should be here by noon
5
—used in auxiliary function to express a request in a polite manner or to soften direct statement I should suggest that a guide … is the first essential— L. D. Reddick
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More Definitions for should
should
\ shəd
, ˈshu̇d\
, ˈshu̇d\
Kids Definition of should
past tense of shall
1
: ought to
They should be here soon.
2
: happen to
If you should see them, say hello for me.
3
—used as a more polite or less assured form of shall Should I turn the light out?
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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