shutdown

1 of 2

noun

shut·​down ˈshət-ˌdau̇n How to pronounce shutdown (audio)
Synonyms of shutdownnext
: the cessation or suspension of an operation or activity

shut down

2 of 2

verb

shut down; shutting down; shuts down

intransitive verb

: to settle so as to obscure vision : close in
the night shut down early

transitive verb

: to make ineffective in competition
shut down the opposition's offensive line

Synonyms

Noun

See All Synonyms & Antonyms in Thesaurus

Examples of shutdown in a Sentence

Noun the shutdown of the factory the factory resumed operation after a brief shutdown for repairs
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
Senator Chuck Schumer, the Senate Minority Leader, has found himself under a microscope since voting to keep the government open rather than causing a shutdown. — Brian Steinberg, Variety, 21 Mar. 2025 The shutdown at one of the world’s busiest travel hubs could affect more than 1,300 flights. — Jade Walker, CNN, 21 Mar. 2025
Verb
Additionally, the Healthcare Program Enforcement Division, which falls under the attorney general's office, filed for a temporary restraining order to shut down Rojas' clinics, according to Paxton's office. — Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 17 Mar. 2025 The city put a emphasis on security at this year’s parade after a swell in underaged drinking, violence and arrests last year, including starting the parade earlier, beefing up police and EMS presence and shutting down bars earlier. — Grace Zokovitch, Boston Herald, 17 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shutdown

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1888, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1779, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense

Time Traveler
The first known use of shutdown was in 1779

Rhymes for shutdown

See All Rhymes for shutdown

Browse Nearby Words

shut down
shutdown
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Cite this Entry

“Shutdown.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shutdown. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

shutdown

noun
shut·​down ˈshət-ˌdau̇n How to pronounce shutdown (audio)
: an ending of an activity

More from Merriam-Webster on shutdown

Nglish: Translation of shutdown for Spanish Speakers

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