shedload: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, colloquial, often used in spoken and journalistic contexts.
Quick answer
What does “shedload” mean?
A very large amount or quantity.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A very large amount or quantity; an informal intensifier meaning 'a lot'.
Used primarily in hyperbolic expressions to emphasise a vast, often overwhelming, quantity. Originally implying an amount large enough to fill a storage shed.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Overwhelmingly more common and established in British English. In American English, it is understood but rarely used and may sound like a Britishism.
Connotations
In BrE, it conveys a robust, slightly humorous emphasis. In AmE, if used, it may be perceived as quirky or an attempt to sound British.
Frequency
High frequency in informal BrE, very low frequency in AmE where 'a ton', 'a bunch', or 'a load' are preferred.
Grammar
How to Use “shedload” in a Sentence
[det] shedload of [NP]Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
"The startup burned through a shedload of venture capital in its first year."
Academic
Virtually never used in formal academic writing.
Everyday
"I've got a shedload of laundry to do this weekend."
Technical
Not used in technical registers.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “shedload”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “shedload”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “shedload”
- Using it as an adjective without 'of' (e.g., 'shedload money' is wrong). Using it in formal writing. Treating it as a countable plural ('shedloads' is acceptable in BrE).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in British English, 'shedloads' is a common plural form (e.g., 'shedloads of people').
No, it's informal and emphatic but not offensive. It's similar in register to 'tons' or 'loads'.
'Shedload' is a milder, more humorous, and family-friendly alternative. 'Shitload' is vulgar and much stronger in tone.
You will be understood, but it will mark you as using British slang. Native AmE speakers would typically say 'a ton', 'a bunch', or 'a load' instead.
A very large amount or quantity.
Shedload is usually informal, colloquial, often used in spoken and journalistic contexts. in register.
Shedload: in British English it is pronounced /ˈʃɛdləʊd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈʃɛdloʊd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “cost a shedload”
- “make a shedload (of money)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a GARDEN SHED completely filled to the roof with cash or toys – that's a SHEDLOAD. The word itself is the image.
Conceptual Metaphor
QUANTITY IS VOLUME (CONTAINER). A large quantity is conceptualised as filling a large container (the shed).
Practice
Quiz
In which context would 'shedload' be LEAST appropriate?