shake-up

[ sheyk-uhp ]

noun

1. a thorough change in a business, department, or the like, as by dismissals, demotions, etc.

shake up

verb

1. to shake or agitate in order to mix
2. to reorganize drastically
3. to stir or rouse
4. to restore the shape of (a pillow, cushion, etc)
5. informal.
   to disturb or shock mentally or physically

noun

1. informal.
   a radical or drastic reorganization

Word History and Origins

Origin of shake-up¹

First recorded in 1900–05; noun use of verb phrase shake up

Example Sentences

“Looking back, I guess I wanted to shake up that nice guy image of Simon & Garfunkel.”

From Los Angeles Times

The government says it wants to shake up and sort out the mess that defence procurement has become.

From BBC

A SpringHill-Fulwell deal would mark the latest in a wave of corporate mergers that have shaken up Hollywood in recent years.

From Los Angeles Times

But her style has risks - “like a can of Heineken, if shaken up too much, it can froth everywhere,” and make a terrible mess.

From BBC

It was effectively announcing the biggest shake up in Instagram’s short history, the creation of specific “teen accounts”.

From BBC

Related Words

• overhaul
• restructuring