shell out
B1 informal separable both
In simple words
To pay a lot of money for something, even when you don't want to.
Literal meaning: To remove a nut or seed from its shell — like extracting something that was enclosed, suggesting effort to release one's money.
Meanings
1 B1
idiomatic
informal
To pay a significant or unwelcome sum of money for something.
"I had to shell out three hundred dollars just to fix the washing machine."
"They are shelling out billions of dollars in aid."
— The Guardian, reported speech, various issues
Grammar: separable
2 B1
idiomatic
informal
To spend money on something considered extravagant or unnecessary.
"She shelled out for a first-class ticket even though the company only covers economy."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
Very common in everyday British and American English. Almost always implies that the speaker finds the cost high or unwelcome. Can be used with or without an object: 'I had to shell out' or 'shell out fifty pounds'.
Commonly used with
money cash hundreds thousands fees repairs tickets
Forms
Base
shell out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
shells out
he/she/it
Past simple
shelled out
yesterday
Past participle
shelled out
have + pp
-ing form
shelling out
continuous
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