shifter

UK: ˈʃɪftə | US: ˈʃɪftər

Definition

  1. n. 1. A person or device that shifts or changes something.

  2. n. 2. (Mechanics) A component in machinery that alters gear positions (e.g., gear shifter).

  3. n. 3. (Slang) Someone who frequently changes opinions, jobs, or lifestyles.

Structure
shift <to move or change>er <agent noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "shifter" combines the verb "shift," derived from Old English sciftan ("to arrange, divide, or move"), with the agentive suffix "-er," indicating a person or thing performing an action. "Shift" itself traces back to Proto-Germanic skiftan, related to the idea of division or change. Over time, "shifter" evolved to describe both literal mechanisms (e.g., gear shifters) and figurative agents of change.

Examples

  1. The bike’s shifter allows smooth gear changes on steep hills.

  2. She’s a career shifter, transitioning from finance to graphic design.

  3. The factory installed automated shifters to improve efficiency.

  4. In folklore, a shape-shifter can transform into any creature.

  5. The shifter malfunctioned, leaving the car stuck in neutral.