Shuffling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shuffling

[ˈʃʌf(ə)lɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

card game

The act of mixing up a deck of cards before dealing them out.

Synonyms

mixing, randomizing, stirring.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shuffling

Often used in relation to cards or documents, meaning to rearrange them in a random order. It can also refer to a dragging way of walking.

  • He started shuffling the deck before dealing the cards.
  • I could hear the old man's shuffling steps as he walked down the hallway.
mixing

Used when combining different substances or elements together to form a single mixture. This can apply to both literal and metaphorical contexts.

  • She was busy mixing the ingredients for the cake.
  • It's important to avoid mixing business with pleasure.
randomizing

Primarily used in technical or scientific contexts to describe making something unpredictable or lacking a pattern.

  • The software is designed for randomizing data to ensure fair results.
  • In the experiment, they are randomizing the samples to eliminate bias.
stirring

Typically used when physically moving a liquid or other substances to blend them together. It can also be used metaphorically to describe causing an emotional response.

  • She kept stirring the soup to make sure it didn't stick to the bottom.
  • The speech was so stirring that it moved many in the audience to tears.

Examples of usage

  • After a few rounds of shuffling, the cards were finally ready to be dealt.
  • She did a quick shuffle before handing out the cards to the players.
Context #2 | Verb

music

To mix or move things around in a random or disorganized manner.

Synonyms

jumble, mix, rearrange.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
shuffling

Used for gently mixing things, especially cards, papers, or feet movement.

  • He was shuffling the cards before dealing.
  • You could hear the shuffling of her feet as she walked across the room.
mix

General term used when combining substances, ingredients, or things together.

  • Mix the flour and sugar before adding the eggs.
  • The DJ played a mix of old and new songs.
jumble

Refers to a messy mix of items, often implying disorganization.

  • Her handbag was a jumble of receipts, keys, and lipsticks.
  • The attic was a jumble of old furniture and boxes.
rearrange

Involves changing the positions or order of items, usually to make them more organized or to fit a new design.

  • She decided to rearrange the furniture in the living room.
  • They had to rearrange the schedule to accommodate everyone.

Examples of usage

  • The DJ was shuffling through his collection of records to find the perfect song.
  • She shuffled the playlist to create a more dynamic listening experience.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Games and Entertainment

  • In card games, shuffling is crucial to ensure fairness and unpredictability.
  • Shuffling can also refer to mixing up playlists or songs, making music listening more exciting.
  • Dance styles often incorporate 'shuffling' as a light-hearted way to keep rhythm, especially in electronic dance music.

Technology

  • In computing, shuffling can refer to the randomization of data to improve performance and security.
  • Algorithms are often used for shuffling digital cards or playlists in apps, ensuring a fresh experience each time.
  • Shuffling playlists has become a popular feature with the rise of digital music and streaming services.

Psychology

  • Shuffling has been shown to enhance memory recall when learning, as it breaks the typical order of content.
  • Engaging in shuffling-type movements can also help with focus and cognitive flexibility during tasks.
  • It can provide a sense of control and creativity, allowing individuals to manipulate their environment.

Music and Dance

  • Shuffling became popular in dance culture, especially with the rise of the Melbourne Shuffle in the 1980s.
  • Musical genres like hip-hop and electronic often use the term shuffling to describe rhythmic footwork and movement.
  • Dancers use shuffling to express their style, often incorporating it into performances and competitions.

Origin of 'shuffling'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'shuffle' comes from the Middle English term 'shovelen', which meant to push or slide.
  • It originally referred to a method of mixing playing cards but has since expanded to other contexts.
  • The word has been in use since around the 15th century, showing its long-standing presence in language.

The term 'shuffling' has its origins in the Middle English word 'shovelen', which meant to move with a dragging or shuffling gait. Over time, the word evolved to refer to the act of mixing or rearranging things in a haphazard manner. In the context of card games, shuffling has become a common practice to ensure fairness and randomization in dealing out cards.


See also: reshuffle, reshuffling, shuffle.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,824, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.