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shoo-in

noun

ˈshü-ˌin How to pronounce shoo-in (audio)
Definition of shoo-innext
as in lock
one that is certain to succeed a shoo-in for the position of secretary of state

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 shoo-in Our Top Picks The Heirloom Pick Any piece from Le Creuset is a shoo-in heirloom piece, and these heritage stoneware dishes in the brand’s classic vibrant glazes are no exception. — Clara Hillis, Architectural Digest, 18 Aug. 2026 Brady is not yet eligible for the Hall of Fame but is considered a shoo-in, having won six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots and a seventh with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before retiring in 2023. — Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 6 Aug. 2026 Beyer’s district is deep-blue, meaning whoever wins the Democratic primary is likely a shoo-in to defeat GOP nominee Tony Sabio in November. — Molly Parks, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 2026 After once looking like shoo-ins to be buyers at the trade deadline on Monday, Miami now will focus more on moves that benefit the future without sacrificing too much from the present. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for shoo-in
Recent Examples of Synonyms for shoo-in
  1. lock
  2. certainty
  3. sure thing
  4. cinch
Noun
  • There is also a security lock to prevent the blade from deploying accidentally.
    — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 17 Sep. 2026
  • The American Sniper star styled her signature golden blonde locks in an elegant updo with face-framing tendrils.
    — Christina Perrier, InStyle, 17 Sep. 2026
Definition of lock
Noun
  • But Wall Street analysts now see a rate hike by December as a near certainty, according to futures prices.
    — DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE STAFFFROM WIRE REPORTS, Arkansas Online, 17 Sep. 2026
  • Russell said any expert claiming certainty on this right now is guessing, and in fact, more on Wall Street now share that view.
    — Kevin Williams, CNBC, 17 Sep. 2026
Definition of certainty
Noun
  • But while players such as Hutson — who won the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year before signing his contract last fall — had already established themselves as top NHL talents, others now landing these contracts are far from sure things.
    — James Mirtle, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
  • In this season specifically, the friend group needs a little bit of mediation and someone to make sure things are running smoothly, and that’s my job as mother.
    — McKinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 26 June 2026
Definition of sure thing
Noun
  • Both vessels are equipped with the latest marine tech, with twin Simrad displays making captaining a cinch.
    — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 9 Sep. 2026
  • So what looks like a cinch to be the best NFL team should be getting better.
    — Nick Canepa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Sep. 2026
Definition of cinch

Browse Nearby Words

shone
shoo-in
shoo-ins
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shoo-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shoo-in. Accessed 23 Sep. 2026.

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