Word
shifter
US/ˈʃɪftɝ/
UK/ʃˈɪftɐ/
Countable noun
Definition
n. a part of a machine or vehicle that you use to change gears. It is also a person or creature in stories that can change their physical shape.
n. a mechanism used to engage or disengage gears in a vehicle or machine; alternatively, a fictional being capable of metamorphosis. Often used in technical contexts regarding automotive transmissions or in speculative fiction.
Examples
“He moved the shifter into third gear as the car accelerated.”
“The mechanic noticed that the shifter was sticking, making it difficult for the driver to change gears smoothly.”
“In many urban fantasy novels, a shifter is a character who possesses the innate ability to transition between human and animal forms at will.”
Examples
simple
“He moved the shifter into third gear as the car accelerated.”
contextual
“The mechanic noticed that the shifter was sticking, making it difficult for the driver to change gears smoothly.”
complex
“In many urban fantasy novels, a shifter is a character who possesses the innate ability to transition between human and animal forms at will.”
Usage
In automotive contexts, 'shifter' is more common in American English, while 'gear lever' is preferred in British English.
Word family
VERB
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domains
- 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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