: one that is a certain and easy winner

Examples of shoo-in in a Sentence

a shoo-in for the position of secretary of state
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Kathy Bates is a virtual shoo-in for an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama for Matlock, who could be competing with Kaitlin Olson on ABC’s High Potential or Molly Parker in Fox’s Doc. Marc Berman, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025 This song is a dramatic, emotional, annoying, definitively ’80s earworm, and was therefore a shoo-in for the Best Original Song category. Carrie Wittmer, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2025 This award season has embraced a flurry of sporadic winners, showcasing few consistent shoo-ins, particularly in the best picture category. Elizabeth Wagmeister, CNN, 28 Feb. 2025 Chris Stapleton won't be a shoo-in for this Australian tour tradition. Marina Watts, People.com, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shoo-in

Word History

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shoo-in was in 1937

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Cite this Entry

“Shoo-in.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shoo-in. Accessed 10 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

shoo-in

noun
ˈshü-ˌin
: one that is a certain and easy winner

More from Merriam-Webster on shoo-in

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