shaker

noun

shak·​er ˈshā-kər How to pronounce shaker (audio)
1
: one that shakes: such as
a
: a utensil or machine used in shaking
cocktail shaker
b
: one that incites, promotes, or directs action
a mover and shaker
2
Shaker [from a dance with shaking movements performed as part of worship] : a member of a millenarian sect originating in England in 1747 and practicing celibacy and an ascetic communal life
Shaker adjective
Shakerism
ˈshā-kə-ˌri-zəm How to pronounce shaker (audio)
noun

Examples of shaker in a Sentence

a member of the Shakers
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Two of the biggest head-shakers were provided by Darnold’s legs. — Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 2026 There are paintings of boats and horses, and a long, no-nonsense bar top with a captain behind it constantly cracking blisteringly cold martini shakers over martini glasses. — Nate Freeman, Vanity Fair, 22 Oct. 2026 The kitchen features Shaker-style cabinetry and a large island with bar seating. — Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 21 Oct. 2026 The four-bedroom home features modern heritage influences—like contemporary shaker furniture paired with more contemporary light fixtures—that define the interiors. — Audrey Lee, Architectural Digest, 20 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shaker

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shaker was in the 15th century

Phrases Containing shaker

Rhymes for shaker

See All Rhymes for shaker

Browse Nearby Words

shakeproof
shaker
shakerag
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Cite this Entry

“Shaker.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shaker. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

shaker

noun
shak·​er ˈshā-kər How to pronounce shaker (audio)
1
: a utensil or machine used in shaking
2
capitalized : a member of a religious group originating in England and practicing a communal life

More from Merriam-Webster on shaker

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about shaker

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