shoulder

shoulder [shōl′dər]

n.

[ME schuldere < OE sculdor, akin to Ger schulter < IE * skḷdhrā, shoulder blade used as a spade < base * (s)kel-, to cut > SHELL, SHILLING, SKULL]

1.

a) the joint connecting the arm or forelimb with the body

b) the part of the body including this joint and extending to the base of the neck

2. [pl.] the two shoulders and the part of the back between them: often used figuratively with reference to this region as a place where burdens are often carried

3. a cut of meat consisting of the upper foreleg and attached parts: see PORK

4. the part of a garment that covers the shoulder

5. something like a shoulder in shape or position; shoulderlike projection

6. that part of the top of a piece of type which extends beyond the base of the raised character: see TYPE

☆ 7. the strip of land along the edge of a paved road; berm

vt.

1. to push or thrust along or through, with or as with the shoulder [to shoulder one's way through a crowd]

2. to take or carry upon the shoulder

3. to assume the burden of

vi.

to push with the shoulder or shoulders

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cry on someone's shoulder

to tell one's troubles to someone in seeking comfort or sympathy

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put one's shoulder to the wheel

to set to work vigorously; put forth vigorous effort

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shoulder arms Mil.

1. to rest a rifle against the (right or left) shoulder, supporting the butt with the hand on the same side

2.

a) this position

b) the command to assume it

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shoulder to shoulder

1. side by side and close together

2. working together; with common effort

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straight from the shoulder

1. moving straight forward from the shoulder: said of a blow

2. without reserve or evasion; frankly

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turn a cold shoulder to or give a cold shoulder to

1. to treat with disdain; snub

2. to avoid or shun