English Reference

Word

milkshake

Phoneticsmilk·shake, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈmɪɫkˌʃeɪk/

UK/mˈɪlkʃeɪk/

Countable & uncountable

Definition

n. a cold, sweet drink made by mixing milk, ice cream, and flavorings like fruit or chocolate until it is smooth.

n. a cold beverage consisting of milk, flavorings, and typically ice cream, whisked or blended until frothy.

Examples

“I ordered a chocolate milkshake with my burger.”

“The diner is famous for its thick strawberry milkshakes topped with whipped cream and a cherry.”

“While traditional recipes rely on hand-scooped ice cream, many modern fast-food chains use automated machines to dispense a pre-mixed milkshake base that maintains a consistent temperature and texture.”

Examples

simple

“I ordered a chocolate milkshake with my burger.”

contextual

“The diner is famous for its thick strawberry milkshakes topped with whipped cream and a cherry.”

complex

“While traditional recipes rely on hand-scooped ice cream, many modern fast-food chains use automated machines to dispense a pre-mixed milkshake base that maintains a consistent temperature and texture.”

Usage

Uncountable when referring to the substance; countable when ordering individual servings.

Etymology

From milk + shake.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Frequency
Occasional
Level
A2 · Elementary
Updated

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English Reference