Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

shake-out

noun
/ˈʃeɪk aʊt/
Definition
A shake-out refers to a process of removing excess elements, often in a business or economic context, to streamline operations or to clarify the state of a market.
Examples
  • After the economic downturn, the shake-out in the industry left only the strongest companies remaining.
  • The tech sector experienced a shake-out as many startups were unable to secure funding.
Meaning
It signifies a situation where weaker competitors are eliminated from a market or where individuals or entities are compelled to adjust to new realities, often resulting in a more robust environment.
Synonyms
  • consolidation
  • restructuring
  • purge