shirk

UK: ʃɜːk | US: ʃɜːrk

Definition

  1. vt. to avoid or neglect (a duty or responsibility)

  2. vi. to evade work or obligation

Structure

No data yet.

Etymology

"Shirk" entered English in the late 16th century, likely derived from German schurke ("scoundrel") or Dutch schurken ("to loiter"). Its core idea of evasion or laziness reflects its Germanic roots, where it originally implied moral failing. Over time, it narrowed to describe deliberate avoidance of duty, retaining its negative connotation.

Examples

  1. Employees who shirk their tasks disrupt team productivity.

  2. He never shirked from challenging assignments.

  3. Shirking responsibilities damages professional reputation.

  4. The manager warned against shirking overtime during busy periods.

  5. Volunteers must not shirk their agreed-upon commitments.