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Shirked Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shirked

[ʃɜːrk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

avoiding responsibility

To shirk means to evade or avoid a responsibility, duty, or task. The term often implies a deliberate avoidance, suggesting that the individual has the means or ability to fulfill the obligation but chooses not to do so. This can apply to work, chores, or other commitments. Shirked responsibilities can lead to negative consequences, both personally and in the context of a group or team. It's commonly used in discussions about work ethics or performing one's duties.

Synonyms

avoid, dodge, evade, neglect, shun.

Examples of usage

  • He shirked his duties at work.
  • She always tries to shirk household chores.
  • Don't shirk your responsibilities during the project.
  • It's not fair to shirk your share of the work.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Cultural Insight

  • In many cultures, shirking responsibilities can lead to negative consequences, often punished through social ostracism.
  • The concept of 'shirked duties' is depicted humorously in various films, often playing into the trope of the lazy character.

Psychology

  • People often shirk responsibilities due to fear of failure or perfectionism, preferring to avoid tasks rather than face potential criticism.
  • The phenomenon of social loafing illustrates how individuals may shirk effort when working in groups, relying on others to perform tasks.

Business

  • In professional settings, shirking can lead to team dysfunction and decreased overall productivity.
  • Many companies implement accountability measures to counteract the tendency to shirk responsibilities within teams.

Literature

  • Shirking responsibilities is a common theme in literature, often leading to character development and moral lessons.
  • Classic works, like those by Charles Dickens, frequently highlight the consequences of avoiding personal obligations.

Origin of 'shirked'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'shirk' comes from the early 19th century, rooted in dialects of England, meaning to evade.
  • Originally, it may have derived from the Old Norse word 'skirkr', which meant to ‘to turn away’ or ‘to dodge’.

The word 'shirk' traces back to the early 18th century, originating from the dialectal 'shirk' which is believed to be influenced by the English regional word 'shirk,' meaning to avoid or evade. This dialectal term itself may derive from the German 'shirker' which means 'to escape' or 'to run away.' Over the years, the connotation of the word has remained relatively consistent, emphasizing the idea of avoiding work or responsibility. In literature, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries, 'shirk' became more commonly used to describe individuals who failed to meet societal expectations of duty, especially in the context of labor and civic responsibilities. Its usage has evolved with the changing dynamics of work ethics and has become a staple term in discussions regarding accountability.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #31,593 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.