shoulder

/ˈʃoʊldər/
verb
  1. To accept or take on a responsibility, burden, or task.
    • He shouldered the responsibility of caring for his younger siblings.
    • She agreed to shoulder the costs of the repair.
    • The team must shoulder the blame for the loss.
  2. To push with the shoulder, often to make one's way through a crowd.
    • She shouldered open the heavy gate.
    • The guard shouldered past the reporters to reach the door.
    • He shouldered his way through the crowded market.
  3. To carry something on one's shoulder.
    • He shouldered the heavy bag and walked to the bus stop.
    • The porter shouldered the luggage and led the way.
    • The soldier shouldered his rifle and marched forward.
noun
  1. The joint between the upper arm and the main part of the body, or the area around it.
    • She carried a heavy backpack on her shoulder.
    • He injured his shoulder while playing baseball.
    • The baby fell asleep on her mother's shoulder.
  2. A part of something that sticks out or is shaped like a human shoulder, such as the edge of a road or a piece of clothing.
    • They walked along the grassy shoulder of the road.
    • The jacket has padded shoulders to give it a sharper look.
    • The car pulled over onto the shoulder of the highway.
  3. Responsibility or burden, often used figuratively.
    • She is willing to shoulder the blame for the mistake.
    • He has a heavy weight on his shoulders after his father's death.
    • The success of the project rests on her shoulders.
What does "shoulder" mean? | whatsthatwordmean | whatsthatwordmean