Shakedown Meaning in English
word
Definition
A 'shakedown' can mean forcing someone to give you money by threats (extortion), or a test to check if something works well, especially before using it fully.
Usage & Nuances
Very informal and often used in crime or informal business contexts. Common with 'give someone a shakedown' (extort), and 'shakedown test' (trial run for machines, systems, or vehicles). In American English, most often refers to extortion or a security check.
Example Sentences
The gang tried a shakedown to get money from the shop owner.
basic
The car must pass a shakedown before the race.
basic
The prison guards did a shakedown of the cells.
basic
After the shakedown, the manager realized someone was stealing from the company.
natural
He called the police when he realized the so-called 'inspection' was just a shakedown.
natural
The new phone went through a shakedown period before going on sale.
natural