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Shack Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shack

[ÊƒĂŠk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

small building

A shack is a small, simple building, usually made of wood or metal, that is used as a temporary shelter or living space. Shacks are often found in rural or impoverished areas.

Synonyms

cabin, hut, shanty.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shack

Often used to describe a small, poorly-built house or shelter, usually in a run-down condition. Has a negative connotation.

  • He lived in a shack on the outskirts of the city
  • The old fishing shack was barely standing
hut

Describes a small, simple building made of natural materials like wood or mud, often found in rural or remote areas.

  • The villagers lived in huts made of straw and clay
  • The shepherd rested in a stone hut
cabin

Refers to a small, cozy house, often located in a forest or rural setting. More positive and commonly associated with vacation homes.

  • We spent the weekend at a cabin in the mountains
  • The log cabin was charming and peaceful
shanty

Used to describe a roughly-built, temporary shelter, often found in slum areas. Has a very negative connotation.

  • The refugees built shanties from whatever materials they could find
  • The shanty town on the outskirts of the city was overcrowded and unsanitary

Examples of usage

  • The fisherman lived in a shack by the river.
  • The homeless man found refuge in a shack in the woods.
Context #2 | Verb

move quickly

To shack means to move quickly or suddenly. It is often used in informal or slang contexts to describe a fast or rapid movement.

Synonyms

dart, dash, sprint.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shack

Used to describe a small, roughly built hut or cabin, often implying poor quality or makeshift conditions. It is often associated with rural or underdeveloped areas.

  • They lived in a small shack by the river.
  • The fisherman stored his gear in a rundown shack.
dash

Refers to a fast, energetic movement, often over a short distance. It conveys urgency and a burst of speed.

  • He made a dash for the exit when the alarm went off.
  • She dashed to catch the bus.
sprint

Implies running at full speed, generally over a short distance. It is often used in the context of athletics and competitions.

  • The athlete sprinted to the finish line.
  • They sprinted the last 100 meters of the race.
dart

Describes a quick, sudden movement, usually in a specific direction. It can imply alertness, agility, or a brief, sharp motion.

  • The rabbit darted across the field.
  • She darted her eyes around the room, looking for her friend.

Examples of usage

  • He shacked across the field to catch the ball.
  • The cat shacked up the tree when it saw the dog.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'shack'

The word 'shack' originated in the 19th century as a colloquial term for a small, roughly built house or shelter. It is believed to have derived from the Irish word 'scairp', meaning a small, mean or inferior house. Over time, 'shack' has become commonly associated with temporary or improvised dwellings, often in rural or impoverished areas.

See also: shackle.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,380, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.