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

The firing of a new executive brought in to shake up the flailing show is getting dead-movie-star tabloid coverage.

From The Daily Beast

The Grey Lady said that a series of badly mishandled global crises has “fueled speculation that Mr. Obama may shake up his team.”

From The Daily Beast

That decision would shake up hundreds of state boards and associations.

From The Daily Beast

Pope Francis also created a new authority in February to shake up the Vatican's own finances.

From The Daily Beast

A new exhibit at the Met wants to shake up these stereotypes.

From The Daily Beast

During the shake-up that followed, the aim of the two ruffians was disconcerted, and their shots went wild.

From Project Gutenberg

The request for her resignation from the other team had not specially troubled Robin, knowing that a shake-up was imminent.

From Project Gutenberg

And now they all went into fits of laughter, Addie with his silent convulsions, which made him shake up and down painfully.

From Project Gutenberg

It did everlastingly shake up the country around here, and lots of permanent springs went plumb dry and never run again.

From Project Gutenberg

When you appear to put the seed in the hat, break the thread and shake up the bouquets loosely, and they will nearly fill the hat.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• overhaul
• restructuring