Shifted Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shifted

[สƒษชftษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

movement, change

Shifted is the past tense of the verb 'shift', which refers to the action of moving something from one place to another or changing position. This can imply a physical movement, such as shifting furniture, or a more abstract change, such as shifting oneโ€™s perspective or focus. The term is often used in various contexts, including work environments, emotional states, and logistics.

Synonyms

changed, moved, transferred, transitioned.

Examples of usage

  • She shifted the boxes to make space.
  • He shifted his focus to more important tasks.
  • The company has shifted its strategy this year.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Shifting perspectives in psychology refers to changing oneโ€™s viewpoint, which can lead to better problem-solving.
  • Cognitive shifts occur when a person changes their mental framework, enhancing adaptability and learning.
  • Researchers believe shifts in mindset can significantly influence motivation and resilience.

Technology

  • In computing, 'shifting' can refer to bit manipulation, moving data left or right for faster processing.
  • Dynamic programming often involves shifting strategies to manage computational resources more effectively.
  • User interfaces have adapted to include shift features for better accessibility and efficiency.

Cultural Context

  • Shifts in societal values have influenced art, fashion, and popular culture throughout history.
  • The concept of shifting has been a theme in many literary works, symbolizing growth or change.
  • In music, the idea of shifting can represent changes in rhythm and tempo, impacting the overall feel of a piece.

Science

  • In physics, shifting can refer to the change in position of objects due to various forces.
  • Geological shifts are significant as they can lead to earthquakes, showcasing how the Earth's plates move.
  • Shifts in ecosystems occur when species adapt or move due to climate changes, impacting biodiversity.

Origin of 'shifted'

Main points about word origin

  • 'Shifted' comes from the Old English word 'sceofan,' which means to push or move.
  • The word has evolved to include not just physical movement but also changes in ideas or opinions.
  • Related words like 'shift' have been used since the 15th century, showing its long-standing presence in the language.

The word 'shift' originated from the Old English term 'sciftan', meaning to divide or distribute. Over time, the meaning evolved to encompass a more general sense of movement or change. In Middle English, the term took on further nuances, including the notion of altering positions or statuses. As languages evolved, the spelling and pronunciation experienced adjustments, eventually leading to the modern usage of 'shift'. Today, 'shift' is widely used in various contexts, from everyday conversations to technical jargon in fields such as logistics and psychology. The versatility of the word allows it to be adapted to describe both physical actions and abstract concepts conveying change.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,831, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.