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Definition of shiftless

shiftless

/ˈʃɪft.ləs/
shift · less
Adverb:shiftlessly
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shiftless Lexical Profile

shiftless Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Characterized by a lack of ambition, energy, or purpose; lazy and unmotivated.

Example

"The novel portrays the landlord's nephew as a shiftless young man who refuses to look for steady work."

2

Lacking the resourcefulness, practical ability, or means to succeed or manage one's affairs effectively.

Example

"Their shiftless management of the family estate eventually led to bankruptcy."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for shiftless

• Nearby Words

shifter
shiftily
shiftiness
shiftless
shiftlessness
shiftwork
shifty

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the 16th century from the noun 'shift' in its earlier sense of a resource, contrivance, or expedient, plus the suffix '-less', originally meaning 'lacking resourcefulness' before evolving to mean 'lazy or unmotivated'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Shiftless. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/shiftless
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