Shawshank

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   To escape, especially by tunneling out or without warning.

   • After endless Shawshanking through the ducts, I came to a grate that offered my first break from the horror show.
   • Kid up and disappears, Shawshanks like a fart in the wind.
   • It was like everything in him had been set free. Like the secret part of himself—the one he kept hidden and didn't let out so he could remain safe and intact—had Shawshanked itself and wasn't going to let it be captured again.
2. 2

   To punish (someone) for something that they did not do.

   • Jim hadn't, but he did agree to give us more time before he Shawshanked me.
   • Sorry you got Shawshanked, but it doesn't change anything.
   • I could have been honest, said it was all a mistake and that I'd been shawshanked, but that hadn't won me any favors so far.
3. 3

   To accomplish something by doing a little bit at a time over a long period of time.

   • I had just given notice at work that I was taking a leave and I wanted to start "Shawshanking" things home
   • Easy, I shawshaked you.
4. ›+ 2 more definitionsshow fewer

   1. 4

      To rape (a man, by a man) as an act of dominance and bullying.

      • This isn't an act of love; he's basically getting Shawshanked by a long-necked bully.
   2. 5

      A literal or figurative prison.

      • We all have our Shawshanks. Some of us have broken free.
      • Therefore, cat strollers are designed as rolling mini Shawshanks, keeping your kitty locked in, while you get the benefits of a walk.

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