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shoulder

Definition

  • noun: the part of your body where your arm is connected
  • noun: the laterally projecting part of the human body formed of the bones and joints with their covering tissue by which the arm is connected with the trunk
  • verb: to deal with or accept (something) as your responsibility or duty
  • verb: to push or thrust with or as if with the shoulder
  • often used figuratively
  • synonyms: support, jostle, crowd

Examples

  • The responsibility for the failure falls squarely 'on her shoulders'. [=she is completely responsible for the failure]

  • You can never feel confident in this business. You always have to be 'looking over your shoulder'.

  • He 'has had a chip on his shoulder' ever since he didn't get the promotion he was expecting.

Movie quotes

  • (..) he raised a sigh so piteous and profound... ...that it did seem to shatter all his bulk and end his being. That done, he lets me go And with his head over his shoulder turned he seemed to find his way without his eyes For out of doors he went without their help, (..)
    2015 Hamlet
  • (..) - Yet here, Laertes? A double blessing is a double grace. Occasion smiles upon a second leave Aboard, aboard for shame. The wind sits in the shoulder of your sail and you are stayed for There, my blessing with you, and these few precepts in thy memory see thou character Give thy thoughts no tongue, (..)
    2015 Hamlet