Definitions

shut

[shuht] / ʃʌt /

VERB

Synonyms

STRONGEST

bar lock push seal

STRONG

cage confine draw enclose exclude fasten fold imprison secure slam

WEAK

batten down close down close up drop the curtain fold up put to shut down wall off

Antonyms

STRONGEST

loosen open unfasten

STRONG

free let go let out loose release

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

U.S. officials were stunned by the move that effectively shut down Project Freedom.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 1, 2026

Comedian Romesh Ranganathan said he is "gutted" after the 89-year-old bakery chain he part-owns shut down.

From BBC • Jul. 1, 2026

Some people shut down, while others become controlling.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 30, 2026

The Probation Department refused to shut down the hall, but L.A.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 30, 2026

Back in the foyer the door has clicked shut, but I’m wishing it hadn’t.

From "The Brightwood Code" by Monica Hesse