shoulder

word

/ˈʃoʊɫdɝ/
SHOHL-dur
/ʃˈəʊldɐ/
SHOHL-duh

Definition

The shoulder is the part of your body between your neck and your arm. It can also mean the area of clothing that covers this part, or the side edge of a road.

Usage & Nuances

Most commonly it refers to the body part. Common phrases include 'hurt your shoulder', 'shrug your shoulders', and 'look over your shoulder'. As a verb, 'shoulder' means to carry or take responsibility, as in 'shoulder the blame'.

Example Sentences

My shoulder hurts after the game.

basic

She put her bag on her shoulder.

basic

The road has a wide shoulder for broken cars.

basic

He just shrugged his shoulders and said he didn't know.

natural

She has had to shoulder most of the work this week.

natural

I always look over my shoulder when I walk home late at night.

natural