noun
Uncommon
shutdown
Shutdown (noun) means the act of stopping something from operating, such as a computer, factory, or government. Example: “The plant announced a temporary shutdown due to the strike.”
noun
1
The act of stopping something from operating, such as a computer, factory, or government.
"The plant announced a temporary shutdown due to the strike."
"Restart the computer after the shutdown completes."
2
A sharp reply or comment that ends an argument in the speaker's favor.
"Her comeback was such a shutdown that he had nothing left to say."
How to use shutdown
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTurning something off or bringing it to a halt — a machine, a business, or an argument.
Common pairings
government shutdown
system shutdown
total shutdown
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Word forms
- Plural
- shutdowns
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The plant announced a temporary _____ due to the strike.
Etymology
From the phrasal verb "shut down."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “shutdown” mean?
The word “shutdown” means the act of stopping something from operating, such as a computer, factory, or government. In plain terms, turning something off or bringing it to a halt — a machine, a business, or an argument.
How do you use “shutdown” in a sentence?
Here is “shutdown” used in a sentence: “The plant announced a temporary shutdown due to the strike.”
What is the opposite of “shutdown”?
The opposite of “shutdown” — its antonyms — is startup.
What part of speech is “shutdown”?
“Shutdown” is a noun.
Is “shutdown” a common word?
“Shutdown” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “shutdown” have?
“Shutdown” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of stopping something from operating, such as a computer, factory, or government.
What is the difference between a "shutdown" and a "shut-off"?
A "shutdown" refers to stopping something from operating entirely, such as a computer, factory, or government, often implying a planned or complete halt. "Shut-off" more often describes cutting off a supply or connection, like a shut-off valve, rather than halting an entire system or operation.
Can "shutdown" mean something other than stopping a machine or system?
Yes, besides describing the stopping of a computer, factory, or government, "shutdown" can informally mean a sharp reply or comment that decisively ends an argument in the speaker's favor. This second sense is common in casual conversation, including online exchanges.
Is "shutdown" written as one word or two?
As a noun referring to stopping something from operating, "shutdown" is written as one word. When used as a verb phrase, it is written as two words, as in "they shut down the factory."
