shake down
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
To cause something to fall down by shaking it, or something it is attached to.
Examples
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
To shake someone so money falls from their pockets.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
To extort money from (someone) by means of threats.
Register: slang
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “shake down” mean?
To cause something to fall down by shaking it, or something it is attached to.
Is “shake down” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.