shirk
16 synonyms for shirk, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To avoid a duty or responsibility.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use shirk
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
shirk responsibility
shirk one's duty
Etymology
First recorded around 1633, likely linked to the word shark (as in a swindler) or borrowed from German Schurke, meaning "rogue" or "knave."
Full origin of shirk →Frequently asked questions
What does “shirk” mean?
The word “shirk” means to avoid a duty or responsibility. In plain terms, to dodge work or responsibility instead of doing it.
How do you pronounce “shirk”?
“Shirk” is pronounced shurk (/ʃɝk/ in IPA).
How do you use “shirk” in a sentence?
Here is “shirk” used in a sentence: “He was accused of shirking his household chores.”
What is another word for “shirk”?
Words with a similar meaning to “shirk” include shrink, blow off, cop out, dog, doss and duck.
What part of speech is “shirk”?
Depending on how it is used, “shirk” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “shirk” come from?
The word “shirk” dates back to around 1633 and comes from German. First recorded around 1633, likely linked to the word shark (as in a swindler) or borrowed from German Schurke, meaning "rogue" or "knave.".
How many meanings does “shirk” have?
“Shirk” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to avoid a duty or responsibility.
