shift
UK[ʃɪft]US[ʃɪft]
v
to move or change from one position, direction, or focus to another
v
to change gears in a vehicle
n
a change in position, direction, or focus
n
a period of work, or a group of workers who work during such a period
n
a simple straight dress
Etymology
The word 'shift' originates from the Old English 'sciftan', meaning to arrange, divide, or appoint. This itself derives from the Proto-Germanic 'skiftaną', which carried the sense of to divide or separate. The core semantic thread from its ancient roots involves the concept of change, division, or movement from one state to another. Over centuries, this fundamental idea branched into the diverse modern meanings, encompassing physical movement, changes in focus, scheduled work periods, and even a type of garment, all connected by the underlying notion of a change or transfer.
Analysis
The word 'shift' is a simplex word of Germanic origin. It functions as a single, indivisible root morpheme in modern English.
Examples
She tried to shift the heavy box to the other side of the room.
The night shift begins at eleven o'clock.
Public opinion on the issue has begun to shift dramatically.