shindig

American  

[shin-dig] / ˈʃɪnˌdɪg /

noun

Informal.

1. an elaborate or large dance, party, or other celebration.

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shindig British  

/ ˈʃɪnˌdɪɡ /

noun

1. a noisy party, dance, etc

2. another word for shindy

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Usage

What does shindig mean? Shindig is a fun word for a party or gathering, especially a noisy and lively one.Shindig is very informal, and it often refers to informal gatherings, especially big, rowdy ones with dancing, but it can be used to refer to any type of party or big celebration. The word has an old-timey or rustic, country feel to it (though not as rustic as hootenanny or hoedown), so it is often used to be a bit silly or just as a more fun way to say party.Example: Big Earl’s having one of his usual shindigs this weekend, with his buddy’s band playing in the field out back.

Etymology

Origin of shindig

1855–60, shin ¹ + dig ¹; compare slang shinscraper dance, shinny ² ( def. )

Example Sentences

Make sure to buy or rent a Halloween costume and come on down for a seasonal shindig you won’t soon forget.

From MarketWatch

Studios, networks and platforms have hosted such events around town for years, but this is the first time the TV Academy has sanctioned post-nominations FYC shindigs.

From Los Angeles Times

Looking to feed a ravenous crowd for a football watching gathering or start prepping early for a Super Bowl shindig?

From Salon

Read all about that and three more of our columnist Amy Kaufman’s most memorable celebrity encounters at the annual shindig for the Hollywood elite.

From Los Angeles Times

The shindig at first seemed like any other Hispanic chamber of commerce event, with people handing me business cards like dealers at a blackjack table.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• gala