shuffle off

verb

transitive verb

: to get rid of : push away : shirk

when we have shuffled off this mortal coil

—Shakespeare

shuffle off the heavy burden of our guilt

—Richard Chase

teachers cannot … shuffle off their responsibility

—C. I. Glicksberg

intransitive verb

: to be on one's way : mosey along

let him shuffle off to the wilderness

—J. B. Priestley

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now