shut off
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To stop or turn off by closing something, such as a valve.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
Richardson dropped into the six-foot between the two engines, ran for a few yards, grabbed Mitchell's engine, and swung himself up. Mitchell had got to his feet by this time, but he made no move. Richardson shut off steam, reversed her, and brought her to a stand.
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
Meaning · English
To switch off.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Sense 3
Meaning · English
To separate; to isolate.
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “shut off” mean?
To stop or turn off by closing something, such as a valve.
Is “shut off” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.