shrug
verb (used with object)
to raise and contract (the shoulders), expressing indifference, disdain, etc.
shrugging
-
present participleof shrug.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Gold futures settled higher with support from a pullback in oil prices, while shrugging off U.S. dollar gains and an uptick in 2-year yields.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 27, 2026
I remember writing about him being on “Saturday Night Live” and people shrugging it off, like, “Oh, it’s not that big of a deal.”
From Salon ● Oct. 16, 2026
The bleachy sunlight is just right, as is the shrugging acceptance that this town’s strivers must accept a fair amount of filth.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 7, 2026
Micron stock was shrugging off CXMT's claimed advance in smartphone memory but investors might want to spread their bets.
From Barron's ● Sep. 1, 2026
The man she was addressing, a horse trader, was shrugging and spreading his hands.
From "The Golden Compass" by Philip Pullman
