Pronunciation: [ʃˈə͡ʊldəɹɪŋ] (IPA) 
Shouldering (/ˈʃəʊldərɪŋ/) is spelled with the letter "o" after "u" and "l". This is because "shoulder" is pronounced with an "oh" sound after the "sh" sound, which is why the "o" is used. The ending "ing" is used to denote the continuous present action of "shoulder" which means to carry or bear something on one's shoulder. This word is commonly used in phrases such as "shouldering responsibility" or "shouldering a burden".
Shouldering is a verb that refers to the act of carrying or supporting something on or against one's shoulder. It involves placing the weight or burden of an object, usually on the upper part of the body between the neck and the arm, by resting it against the shoulder. This action is often done for the purpose of transporting, holding, or stabilizing items.
In a literal sense, shouldering can be seen in everyday activities such as carrying a backpack, lifting a heavy object, or holding a rifle against one's shoulder while shooting. It requires a strong shoulder and arm muscles to effectively support the weight or pressure exerted.
Metaphorically, shouldering can also describe the act of taking responsibility or assuming a burden or duty. It signifies willingly accepting a difficult or challenging task that may require dedication, effort, or sacrifices. In this sense, shouldering emphasizes the strength, resilience, and willingness of an individual to bear the weight or responsibility.
Overall, shouldering encompasses both the physical and metaphorical aspects of carrying or supporting. It entails physically stabilizing objects on or against the shoulder, as well as the metaphorical act of assuming responsibility or undertaking challenging tasks.
The word shouldering is derived from the verb shoulder, which originated from the Old English word scealdur or scealdor. It is a combination of the Old English words sceald meaning shoulder and the suffix -or indicating an agent or doer. Over time, scealdur gradually evolved into shoulder as the standard spelling, and the addition of the -ing suffix forms the present participle shouldering.
