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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Last Updated

14 Jan 2019

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Time Traveler for should

The first known use of should was before the 12th century

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More Definitions for should

should

\ shəd,

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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