shift 1 of 2

Definition of shiftnext
1
2
as in to twitch
to change one's position she shifted uncomfortably in her seat throughout the interview

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

3
as in to change
to pass from one form, state, or level to another she watched the aurora in fascination as its colors shifted from green to blue

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

4
as in to exchange
to give up (something) and take something else in return my brother and I shifted seats just before takeoff so that he could sit by the window

Synonyms & Similar Words

5

shift

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noun

Synonym Chooser

How is the word shift different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of shift are expedient, makeshift, resort, resource, and stopgap. While all these words mean "something one turns to in the absence of the usual means or source of supply," shift implies a tentative or temporary imperfect expedient.

desperate shifts to stave off foreclosure

When could expedient be used to replace shift?

The words expedient and shift can be used in similar contexts, but expedient may apply to any device or contrivance used when the usual one is not at hand or not possible.

a flimsy expedient

When is it sensible to use makeshift instead of shift?

The synonyms makeshift and shift are sometimes interchangeable, but makeshift implies an inferior expedient adopted because of urgent need or allowed through indifference.

old equipment employed as a makeshift

How are the words resource and resort related as synonyms of shift?

Both resource and resort apply to anything one falls back upon.

exhausted all of their resources
a last resort

When might stopgap be a better fit than shift?

While the synonyms stopgap and shift are close in meaning, stopgap applies to something used temporarily as an emergency measure.

a new law intended only as a stopgap

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 shift
Verb
That is a reflection of the kingdom’s shifting priorities and greater focus on bringing in foreign investors. Matthew Martin, semafor.com, 7 June 2026 In this regard, Kumar highlighted that management has shifted its focus away from growth spending toward maximizing free cash flow. Tipranks.com Staff, CNBC, 7 June 2026
Noun
White Cabinetry and Marble Tile A gray-and-white marble mosaic tile that shifts from a subway pattern to a herringbone pattern above the stove brings an expensive touch to this smaller kitchen. Lauren Jones, The Spruce, 6 June 2026 Best Quilts Deals With a new season comes a shift in bedding needs, which is why this sale is an ideal opportunity to score lightweight layers at low prices. Better Homes & Gardens, 6 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for shift
Recent Examples of Synonyms for shift
Verb
  • That stands in contrast to the Nasdaq, which has already moved to fast-track SpaceX's inclusion in the Nasdaq 100 index, leading to concerns that new retail investors could become the cash cow of exit liquidity for legacy SpaceX shareholders.
    Katie Foley, CNBC, 5 June 2026
  • In the production, directed by Jo Bonney, Susanna arrives there before realizing what has happened, a scene change that moves briskly enough to surprise you in the audience too.
    Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 5 June 2026
Verb
  • The Hormuz crisis will not end when oil markets stop twitching.
    John W.H. Denton AO, Fortune, 6 June 2026
  • The Buena Vista Social Club features feet-twitching music and Wolf says that, obviously, people want to get up and dance but that’s just not allowed.
    Baz Bamigboye, Deadline, 2 June 2026
Verb
  • The cocktails change regularly, and there’s always a weekly special such as the recent Trance Dance featuring apple, cinnamon, gingerbread, and rum.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 June 2026
  • And apparently not even Michael Jordan could change his mind.
    Alejandro Avila OutKick, FOXNews.com, 4 June 2026
Verb
  • The apparent loss of the aircraft came after hostilities in the region escalated over the weekend, with Iran and Israel exchanging their first direct strikes in months late Sunday.
    Todd Symons, CNN Money, 9 June 2026
  • An armed intruder was shot and killed after entering a San Jacinto home and exchanging gunfire with the homeowner, according to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
    Jazmin Alvarado, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026
Verb
  • Amid fears of how Kvaratskhelia would cope with the difficulties, his long-time youth coach, Vladimer Kakashvili, made a proposal.
    Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 29 May 2026
  • Severe weather alerts are in effect across Western Europe as millions cope with extreme temperatures.
    Chelsea Gohd, Space.com, 29 May 2026
Noun
  • He was indicted on three counts -- destruction of property by means of fire, arson affecting property used in interstate commerce and timber set afire.
    Meredith Deliso, ABC News, 8 June 2026
  • Adding a healthy twist to the magical premise, powers in Dragon Striker are meant to be employed for athletic means.
    Allison McClain Merrill, Parents, 8 June 2026
Noun
  • The shifting is effortless and precise, the steering intuitively responsive, and the grip decidedly reassuring, as is the overall handling, a pleasant surprise for a car that pushes the lightweighting boundaries.
    Viju Mathew, Robb Report, 1 June 2026
  • Among the images are some depicting Merlin the magician shape-shifting into different forms and some of the tales of King Arthur and his knights.
    Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 28 May 2026
Verb
  • As a result of its complications, the team was forced to relocate its base camp from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico.
    Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 3 June 2026
  • Originally destined for slaughter during the Eid al-Adha festival, the 1,500-pound animal was seized by authorities, spared sacrifice and relocated to the capital’s zoo, where keepers lavish it with care.
    al Emrun Garjon, Los Angeles Times, 3 June 2026

Cite this Entry

“Shift.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shift. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.

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