Shiftless Definition & Meaning

shiftless
adjective
  1. lacking or characterized by lack of ambition or initiative; lazy; "a shiftless student"; "studied in a shiftless way"

"Shiftless" in song lyrics

See how shiftless is used in real songs:

  • "A young brother who hungers, lying there shiftless"
    Mr. Lif f/ Aesop Rock, El-P — Take, Hold, Fire!

Usage tips for "shiftless"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "shiftless" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for shiftless to find words that pair well.

Use "shiftless" in a verse

Now that you know what "shiftless" means, try using it in your own lyrics:

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