Middle English Dictionary Entry

shunten v.
Quotations: Show all Hide all

Entry Info

Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)

1.
(a) To move suddenly, jerk; move quickly, ?slide; of a horse: shy, start; (b) of earth, the elements: to move or shake.
2.
(a) To turn away, withdraw, run away; dodge, swerve; also, flinch; also, hesitate; hesitate (to do sth.); ~ for shame; (b) ~ from (of), to retreat from (a place); also, revoke (an oath), retract [1st quot.]; (c) ben shunt, to move over (to a place).
3.
(a) To evade one's destiny; escape; escape (sth.); (b) to avoid (sth.); parry (a blow); (c) ~ of, ?to cause (sb.) to avoid (shame).