Shoo-In
/ˈʃuːˌɪn/noun
A person or thing regarded as certain to succeed or win.
Did you know?The expression is American slang from the early 20th century, probably shaped by horse-racing imagery, although its exact original context remains uncertain.
Etymological Timeline
16th Century
English
shoo
“An exclamation used to drive away a person, animal, or nuisance.”
17th–19th Centuries
English
shoo
“A common imperative meaning “go away” or “move along,” probably formed through sound imitation.”
Early 20th Century
American English
shoo-in
“A likely winner or candidate, first appearing in American informal usage.”
1930s
American English
shoo-in
“A person or competitor considered certain to win, especially in political or sporting contexts.”
Modern English
English
shoo-in
“Someone or something virtually guaranteed to succeed.”