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Shunt Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shunt

[สƒสŒnt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

transport

A side track or siding on a railway.

Examples of usage

  • The train moved onto the shunt to allow another train to pass on the main track.
  • The shunt was used to store extra carriages.
Context #2 | Noun

informal

A push or shove, typically given with the elbow.

Examples of usage

  • He gave me a shunt to get my attention in the crowded room.
  • She received a shunt in the queue as people rushed to the exit.
Context #3 | Verb

transport

Move or cause to move quietly and stealthily.

Examples of usage

  • The spy had to shunt through the shadows to avoid detection.
  • We need to shunt the supplies to the warehouse without attracting attention.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In electrical engineering, a shunt is a device that allows a portion of current to pass while the rest travels on a different path.
  • In medical terms, a shunt can refer to a tube that redirects bodily fluids, often used in treating conditions like hydrocephalus.

Medicine

  • Surgical procedures involving a shunt are critical for managing blood flow and pressure in various medical scenarios.
  • The use of shunts in dialysis helps filter waste from the blood, showcasing its importance in kidney health.

Transportation

  • In railway systems, shunting refers to the movement of trains or carriages from one track to another, ensuring efficient traffic management.
  • Effective shunting procedures are essential for maintaining train schedules and maximizing the use of tracks.

Psychology

  • In a metaphoric sense, 'shunting' can describe how people redirect their emotions or thoughts away from something uncomfortable or unwanted.
  • This psychological 'shunting' can be a coping mechanism, helping individuals manage stress or anxiety.

Origin of 'shunt'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'shunt' comes from the Middle English 'shunten,' which means to push away or to dodge.
  • It was first used in the early 1700s, originally applied to describe a change in movement, especially in trains.

The word 'shunt' originated in the mid 19th century, deriving from the dialect use of 'shunt' meaning to move or turn aside. It first appeared in the context of railways, referring to a side track or siding used to store rolling stock. Over time, the term expanded to include informal meanings such as a push or shove, often given with the elbow. As a verb, 'shunt' also evolved to describe the act of moving quietly and stealthily. Today, 'shunt' continues to be used in both transport and informal contexts, reflecting its diverse history and evolution.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,494, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.