Shanghai

usgb/ˌʃæŋˈhaɪ/
verb

To force someone to do something or go somewhere by tricking or kidnapping them.

He was shanghaied into working for the gang after they threatened his family.
Visual representation of "shanghai" - To force someone to do something or go somewhere by tricking or kidnapping them.

Often appears as...

  • shanghaied into working
  • shanghaied into joining

Usage tips

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "shanghai"
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Negative Connotation

Implies an unethical or illegal way of forcing someone, carries a negative tone.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
He felt shanghaied into signing the unfair contract.
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Historical Origin

Originally referred to abducting sailors to crew ships bound for Shanghai in the 19th century.

Illustration for Historical Origin
Sailors at the port feared being shanghaied and forced into a treacherous voyage.
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Colloquial Usage

Used informally, often in spoken English or casual writing, not in formal situations.

Illustration for Colloquial Usage
I was basically shanghaied into organizing the entire event by myself.
Visual representation of the word "Shanghai"

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