: one that shifts
especially : gearshift

Examples of shifter in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
My zero-mile review Slingshot came with a five-speed manual gearbox (highly recommended), but an auto with paddle shifters is also available. William Roberson, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 From there, driving the 849 Testarossa Spider feels special and intuitive, from the tap of the large carbon-fiber paddle shifters to the mechanical feel of the manettino dial. Basem Wasef, Robb Report, 26 Aug. 2026 On his latest Hyperdub release, the Japanese producer born Takahide Higuchi sings more than on previous records but tortures his voice through a gauntlet of pitch-shifter effects. Daniel Bromfield, Pitchfork, 27 July 2026 But also sort of mythic, almost going back to classic storytelling, this sort of shape shifter story, and Frankenstein story of it all. Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 23 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for shifter

Word History

First Known Use

1571, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shifter was in 1571

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shifter.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shifter. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

Kids Definition

: one that shifts
especially : gearshift
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