C1verb2K

Shed

UK /["/ʃed/","/ʃedz/","/ˈʃedɪŋ/"]/US /["/ʃed/","/ʃedz/","/ˈʃedɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to get rid of something that is no longer wanted

In simple words: A small building used for storage or gardening.

Examples

Trees shed their leaves every autumn.
The snake shed its skin as it grew larger.
She decided to shed some weight before the competition.
He wanted to shed his old habits and start fresh.
The company plans to shed several divisions to focus on its core business.

Usage notes

Use 'shed' for informal discussions about storage spaces, typically in gardens or backyards. Avoid in very formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'shed' as a 'shed-ow' where tools are hiding.

Collocations

garden shed
wooden shed
storage shed
paint a shed
build a shed

Synonyms

outbuilding
storage unit
tool shed
cabin
barn

Antonyms

gather
collect
retain

Common mistakes

Confusing 'shed' with 'shelter', which is more about protection.
Using 'shed' to describe indoor storage, when it usually refers to outdoor structures.
Mispronouncing 'shed' as 'shad', which changes the word's meaning.