shoo-in

[shoo-in]

noun

Informal.

1. a candidate, competitor, etc., regarded as certain to win.

shoo-in

noun

1. a person or thing that is certain to win or succeed

2. a match or contest that is easy to win

Word History and Origins

Origin of shoo-in¹

1945–50, noun use of verb phrase shoo in

Example Sentences

Heading into training camp, Taylor Heinicke appeared to be a shoo-in for the role, even with the addition of Trey Lance, who was joining his third team in four years.

From Los Angeles Times

When fit, she is one of the first names on Wiegman's teamsheet and would have been a shoo-in for the squad.

From BBC

“As ‘The Penguin’s’ feral villain, Cristin Milioti has been a shoo-in for this race for quite a while,” assures Tracy Brown.

From Los Angeles Times

He said he thought he was a "shoo-in" for fifth place until his housemates began "disappearing" on Friday night's show.

From BBC

Le Pen's share of the vote has consistently risen during her previous three failed bids for the top job but it is premature, at best, to consider her a shoo-in for 2027.

From BBC

Related Words

• front-runner