shunt
2 synonyms for shunt, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To move something (often a train) onto a different track or path.
Synonyms
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.
electrical shunt
Synonyms by Meaning
1. verb
To move something (often a train) onto a different track or path.
“The freight train was shunted onto a side track to let the express pass.”
bypass
electrical shunt
2. noun
A device or connection that provides an alternative path, such as for electric current or in the body.
“Doctors inserted a shunt to relieve pressure on the brain.”
Etymology
From Middle English words meaning "to jerk, swerve, dodge," possibly linked to "shun."
Full origin of shunt →Frequently asked questions
What does “shunt” mean?
The word “shunt” means to move something (often a train) onto a different track or path. In plain terms, to divert something onto another path — a train, electric current, body fluid, or blame — or a minor bump between cars.
How do you pronounce “shunt”?
“Shunt” is pronounced shuhnt (/ʃʌnt/ in IPA).
How do you use “shunt” in a sentence?
Here is “shunt” used in a sentence: “The freight train was shunted onto a side track to let the express pass.”
What part of speech is “shunt”?
Depending on how it is used, “shunt” can be a verb and a noun.
Where does the word “shunt” come from?
The word “shunt” comes from Middle English. From Middle English words meaning "to jerk, swerve, dodge," possibly linked to "shun.".
How many meanings does “shunt” have?
“Shunt” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to move something (often a train) onto a different track or path.
