What does shaker mean?
A shaker is most commonly a container used to mix ingredients by moving it rapidly from side to side. This includes cocktail shakers, spice shakers, and similar kitchen tools, as well as containers used to dispense paint, sand, or other small particles. The word can also denote a person who shakes, whether literally or figuratively, but that sense is usually informal and sometimes dismissive. In British and American English, “shaker” is particularly associated with the kitchen, where a lid and a firm, even motion help combine ingredients that would otherwise separate. The word comes from the older English verb “shake,” so its basic meaning is connected with rapid movement from side to side. It is useful in a household context because it names both the tool and, occasionally, the person performing the shaking action.
A container used to mix ingredients or dispense small particles by shaking.
"The waiter handed us a cocktail shaker and several small glasses."
In the kitchen and bar sense, this is the dominant modern meaning.
A person who shakes something, or who trembles or moves restlessly.
"The old dog was a constant shaker after the storm began."
The sense meaning a person who trembles is informal and sometimes derogatory.
Used for multiple containers, dispensers, or people who shake or tremble.
"The bar staff lined up several shakers behind the counter."
From the simple act of shaking comes one of the kitchen's most familiar tools: the shaker, a container designed to transform movement into a smooth mixture.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does shaker come from?
“Shaker” is an agent-noun formation based on the English verb “shake.” The underlying verb has Germanic and Old Norse roots associated with rapid movement, and related forms include “shaken,” “shaking,” and “shaky.” The word “shaker” originally referred to a person who shook, and later extended to containers whose contents could be mixed or dispensed by shaking.
How shaker is actually used
The common culinary and household sense is standard in both British and American English. The sense meaning a person who trembles is informal and can sound dismissive or teasing.
Easily confused with shaker
This spelling refers to the container or person that shakes; the alternative spelling is a term for a member of a religious group historically known for communal dancing and shaking.