on the shelf

phrase

Synonyms of on the shelfnext
: in a state of inactivity or uselessness

Examples of on the shelf in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Sticky Outdoor Toys Instead of stashing dirty or damaged outdoor toys back on the shelf, go through every item and carefully inspect it, discarding any broken or torn toys and giving dirty ones a good deep clean. — Maria Sabella, The Spruce, 23 Aug. 2026 Once a film is actually on the shelf, that same audience interest becomes data a filmmaker can use. — Joshua Encinias, IndieWire, 21 Aug. 2026 He was promoted to the Raw brand after WrestleMania 40 but a torn ACL injury kept him on the shelf for a year. — Ryan Gaydos Outkick, FOXNews.com, 20 Aug. 2026 It had been sandwiched on the shelf between Belle Burden’s Strangers and Caro Claire Burke’s Yesteryear. — Air Mail, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for on the shelf

Rhymes for on the shelf

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Browse Nearby Words

on the scent of
on the shelf
on the side
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Cite this Entry

“On the shelf.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20the%20shelf. Accessed 3 Sep. 2026.

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