shot

I. noun Etymology: Middle English, from Old English sceot, scot; akin to Old High German scuz, Old Norse skot shot, Old English scēotan to shoot — more at shoot Date: before 12th century 1. a. an action of shooting b. a directed propelling of a missile; specifically a directed discharge of a firearm c. (1) a stroke or throw in an attempt to score points in a game (as tennis, pool, or basketball); also home run (2) ability to shoot <

has the best shot on the team

> d. blast 5a e. a medical or narcotics injection 2. a. plural shot something propelled by shooting; especially small lead or steel pellets especially forming a charge for a shotgun b. a metal sphere of iron or brass that is heaved in the shot put 3. a. the distance that a missile is or can be thrown b. range, reach 4. a charge to be paid ; scot 5. one that shoots; especially marksman 6. a. attempt, try <

give it a shot

> b. guess, conjecture c. chance 4a <

a shot at winning the prize

> d. a single appearance as an entertainer <

did a guest shot for the program

> 7. an effective remark; especially swipe 2 <

a parting shot

> 8. a. a single photographic exposure; especially snapshot b. a single sequence of a motion picture or a television program shot by one camera without interruption 9. a charge of explosives 10. a. a small measure or serving (as one ounce) of undiluted liquor or other beverage <

vodka shots

> <

a shot of espresso

> b. a small amount applied at one time ; dose <

a shot of fertilizer

> <

a shot of humor

> 11. shot plural sprinkles, jimmies II. past and past participle of shoot III. adjective Date: 1763 1. a. of a fabric having contrasting and changeable color effects ; iridescent b. suffused or streaked with a color <

hair shot with gray

> c. infused or permeated with a quality or element <

shot through with wit

> 2. having the form of pellets resembling shot 3. reduced to a ruined or useless state <

his nerves are shot

>