shakedown

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

noun initial adjustments to improve the functioning or the efficiency and to bring to a more satisfactory state
noun a very thorough search of a person or a place
noun extortion of money (as by blackmail)

Deverbal from shake down. An improvised bed would originally have been made by shaking down straw.

I've forgotten to ask the Station fellows to give me a night's shakedown. — That Which Hath Wings: A Novel of the Day, Richard Dehan
We'll scare you up a shakedown to sleep on and you're welcome as welcome. — Lucy Maud Montgomery Short Stories, 1909 to 1922, L. M. (Lucy Maud) Montgomery
A shakedown was spread in the kitchen for the unexpected guests, and presently the Ralstons found themselves alone. — Lucy Maud Montgomery Short Stories, 1902 to 1903, L. M. (Lucy Maud) Montgomery

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