Shanghaied Meaning in English
word · lemma: shanghai
Definition
To trick or force someone into doing something, especially by taking them somewhere against their will. Historically, it referred to kidnapping men to work on ships.
Usage & Nuances
Informal, slightly old-fashioned. Now usually used figuratively, like being made to do something against your will. Typical in, 'He shanghaied me into helping.' Can refer to physical force or strong peer pressure.
Example Sentences
He was shanghaied onto a ship in the middle of the night.
basic
I was shanghaied into cleaning the garage.
basic
They shanghaied several workers to help with the move.
basic
I got shanghaied into babysitting on my only free night.
natural
Somehow, we all got shanghaied into volunteering at the festival.
natural
Did you see how Jamie got shanghaied into leading the meeting?
natural