Meaning of the word shifts in English

What does shifts mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

shifts

US /ʃɪfts/
UK /ʃɪfts/

Noun

1.

a slight change in position, direction, or tendency

Example:
There has been a significant shift in public opinion.
The tectonic plates cause a gradual shift in the Earth's surface.
2.

a period of time during which a person works

Example:
She works the night shift at the hospital.
My shift starts at 8 AM tomorrow.
3.

a key on a keyboard used to switch between lowercase and uppercase letters, or to access alternative functions of other keys

Example:
Press the Shift key to type a capital letter.
Hold down Shift while clicking to select multiple items.

Verb

1.

to move or cause to move from one place or position to another, especially over a small distance

Example:
He shifted his weight from one foot to the other.
The wind shifted direction suddenly.
2.

to change gears in a vehicle

Example:
He had to shift down to a lower gear to climb the steep hill.
Remember to shift up when you gain speed.