off-the-shelf
|off-the-shelf|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˌɔf ðə ˈʃɛlf/
🇬🇧
/ˌɒf ðə ˈʃɛlf/
readily available
Etymology
Etymology Information
'off-the-shelf' originates from the concept of products being readily available on store shelves, implying no need for special orders or customization.
Historical Evolution
The term 'off-the-shelf' evolved from the literal idea of taking items directly from store shelves, becoming a metaphor for readily available solutions.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it referred to physical products available in stores, but now it also applies to digital products and solutions.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
available for immediate purchase and use without customization.
The company decided to use off-the-shelf software for their project.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35