Definition of Shake
Quick Meaning of Shake
To move something quickly back and forth or up and down; to tremble or vibrate.
Detailed Definition of Shake
To move back and forth or up and down with quick, short movements.
How to Pronounce Shake
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: /ʃeɪk/ rhymes with 'make'. The 'a-e' makes the long 'a' diphthong sound.
Watch out: Sometimes pronounced /ʃæk/ with short 'a'; should be /ʃeɪk/ with long 'a'.
Origin and Etymology of Shake
From Old English 'sceacan', related to Germanic languages meaning to move or shake.
How to Use Shake in a Sentence
Each example shows “shake” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“Shake the juice container before drinking.”
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“She shook her head to say no.”
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“The building shook during the earthquake.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Shake
Common Synonyms for Shake
Smart Synonyms for Shake — When to Use Each
- tremble
- for small involuntary shaking from fear or cold
- vibrate
- for rapid continuous shaking or oscillation
- quiver
- for slight trembling movements
Antonyms of Shake
Common Collocations with Shake
These phrases pair with “shake” in everyday English:
- shake hands
- shake your head
- shake up
- shake off
- shake a bottle
Common Mistakes When Using Shake
Even fluent speakers slip up with “shake”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The table are shaking from the vibrations.
- ✓ Correct: The table is shaking from the vibrations.
- Why: Singular subject 'table' requires singular verb 'is', not plural 'are'.
- ✗ Wrong: He shaked his hand with the guests.
- ✓ Correct: He shook hands with the guests.
- Why: Irregular verb: past tense is 'shook', not 'shaked'. Also use 'shake hands' as a phrase.
Words Confused With Shake
- Shake vs Shove: Shake is repeated rapid movement; shove is one pushing movement.
Other Forms of Shake
Frequently Asked Questions About Shake
What is the meaning of "Shake"?
To move something quickly back and forth or up and down; to tremble or vibrate.
How do you pronounce "Shake"?
The IPA is /ʃeɪk/. /ʃeɪk/ rhymes with 'make'. The 'a-e' makes the long 'a' diphthong sound.
What part of speech is "Shake"?
"Shake" is a verb at A1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Shake"?
Common synonyms include tremble, vibrate, quiver.
How do you use "Shake" in a sentence?
For example: "Shake the juice container before drinking."