Definitions

shake up

[sheyk-uhp] / ˈʃeɪkˌʌp /

VERB

upset, unsettle

Synonyms

STRONGEST

disturb reorganize shock

WEAK

agitate break with past cause revolution churn up clean out clean up clear out liquidate make a clean sweep mix overturn purge remove rid stir up turn upside down

Antonyms

WEAK

calm placate soothe

NOUN

reorganization

Synonyms

STRONGEST

overhaul restructuring

STRONG

reorganization revolution upset

WEAK

reconstitution reestablishment

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Many pharmaceutical executives said Makary's initiatives to shake up the drug review process had only created more problems.

From Barron's • May 12, 2026

LIV introduced 54-hole shotgun start team competitions and felt that would shake up pro golf like never before.

From BBC • Apr. 30, 2026

Weinstein launched a broader campaign to shake up Britain’s 150-year-old investment-trust industry in late 2024, initially attacking seven funds over the steep discounts at which their shares traded relative to the value of their holdings.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

Though Coe failed to shake up country music at that time, he would still release singles under Singleton’s Nashville-based record company, Plantation Records.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

He wasn’t ready to shake up the world.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman

shake up

Example Sentences

Related Words