verb
Uncommon
shun
shuhn
Shun (verb) means to deliberately avoid someone or something, often as a form of social rejection. Example: “After the scandal, his old friends began to shun him.”
verb
1
To deliberately avoid someone or something, often as a form of social rejection.
"After the scandal, his old friends began to shun him."
"She shuns crowded parties whenever she can."
How to use shun
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo keep away from someone or something on purpose, often because you disapprove of it.
Common pairings
shun someone
shun publicity
shunned by
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- shuns
- Past tense
- shunned
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
After the scandal, his old friends began to _____ him.
Etymology
From Old English sċunian, "to shun, fear, avoid," of uncertain deeper origin.
Related words
Rhymes for shun
See all rhymes for shun →Frequently asked questions
What does “shun” mean?
The word “shun” means to deliberately avoid someone or something, often as a form of social rejection. In plain terms, to keep away from someone or something on purpose, often because you disapprove of it.
How do you pronounce “shun”?
“Shun” is pronounced shuhn (/ʃʌn/ in IPA).
How do you use “shun” in a sentence?
Here is “shun” used in a sentence: “After the scandal, his old friends began to shun him.”
What part of speech is “shun”?
“Shun” is a verb.
Where does the word “shun” come from?
The word “shun” comes from Old English. From Old English sċunian, "to shun, fear, avoid," of uncertain deeper origin.
Is “shun” a common word?
“Shun” is an uncommon word in modern English.
