SHAKE-UP Synonyms: 104 Similar and Opposite Words

shake up 1 of 2

verb

Definition of shake up

as in to shock

to cause an unpleasant surprise for the news that we had failed the auto inspection shook us up

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shake-up

2 of 2

noun

as in shakeout

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of shake up

Verb

And while Weiss has been tasked with reimagining CBS News for the digital age, many of her efforts so far have been shaking up the network’s linear programs. — Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 14 July 2026 Ahead of his final year at the prestigious Buckley School, Bret (Igby Rigney) is shaken up by a mysterious new student, Robert Mallory (Homer Gere), who arrives just as a serial killer called the Trawler is terrorizing LA. — Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 13 July 2026

Noun

Verizon in particular is in need of a shake-up given its recent CEO shuffle, and creating a connectivity giant might be its ticket. — Alex Weprin, HollywoodReporter, 29 June 2026 In his remarks to the board, Linthicum advocated for a measured approach to justice and said the department needs a shake-up. — Daniel Lempres, Sacbee.com, 23 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for shake up

Recent Examples of Synonyms for shake up

Verb

Severe droughts and searing heat across vast swathes of southern Europe destroyed large parts of the olive oil harvest, culminating in a dizzying price rally that shocked industry veterans and consumers alike.

— Sam Meredith, CNBC, 17 July 2026
Lam’s account shocked many people in the former British colony, which Beijing promised would maintain its Western-style civil liberties for 50 years after its return to China in 1997.

— Kanis Leung, Fortune, 16 July 2026

Definition of shock

Verb

He was appalled by the slaughter, but, more than that, by the complacency of his neighbors, their willingness to ignore the bloody work being done under their noses.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 10 July 2026
Many subjects were appalled by his treatment of his closest family.

— Hadley Hall Meares, Vanity Fair, 9 July 2026

Definition of appall

Noun

The Russia sanctions measure is also competing for floor time with a must-pass defense policy bill and government spending bills that would prevent a shutdown.

— Burgess Everett, semafor.com, 13 July 2026
The government’s monthslong internet shutdown also strangled parts of the economy – especially those with foreign clients – that relied on the world wide web.

— Frederik Pleitgen, CNN Money, 11 July 2026

Definition of shutdown

Verb

Outsiders were stunned by this American phenomenon, which was at times both refreshing, and kinda sad.

— Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 July 2026
Current and former Homeland Security officials and federal law enforcement officers were stunned Monday evening by the department’s explanation of what unfolded in Maine, where an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent fatally shot a man.

— Caroll Alvarado, CNN Money, 13 July 2026

Definition of stun

Noun

After a strong start to the tournament, the reigning champions teetered on the brink of elimination throughout the knockout stage, trailing Egypt and England until the closing stages, needing extra time to overcome Cape Verde and Switzerland.

— Oliver Kay, New York Times, 20 July 2026
Post Malone headlined the pre-match closing ceremony while Hudson performed the National Anthem.

— Julia Teti, Footwear News, 19 July 2026

Definition of closing

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shakes up

shake up

shake-up

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“Shake up.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shake%20up. Accessed 21 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of shake up

verb

noun

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