Pronunciation: [ʃˈʌfə͡lz ˈɒf] (IPA) 
The word "shuffles off" is often used to describe someone or something moving away in a slow or shuffling manner. It is spelled with two "f's" at the end, reflecting the aspirated "f" sound. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word would be transcribed as /ˈʃʌfəlz ɒf/. This indicates that the initial "sh" sound is followed by a short "u" sound and then an "f" sound. The final "s" sound is softened before the aspirated "f" sound.
The term "shuffles off" is an idiomatic expression that typically refers to someone or something moving away or departing in a slow, hesitant, or inconspicuous manner. It implies a somewhat furtive or unassertive movement, often associated with leaving a place or situation without attracting much attention.
In a literal sense, "shuffles off" may describe a person taking small, shuffling steps while walking away, suggesting a lack of urgency or energy in their movement. It conveys a sense of slyness or secrecy, as if the individual wishes to go unnoticed or evade notice. It can also indicate an individual who is weary or weak, perhaps due to age or physical ailment, and struggles to maintain a normal gait while leaving.
Figuratively, "shuffles off" is commonly used to describe someone avoiding or escaping from a responsibility, a confrontation, or the consequences of their actions. It implies a cautious or guilty departure, where the person seeks to evade or minimize any negative repercussions. This phrase can also be used to describe the quiet passing or death of a person, particularly in a euphemistic context, suggesting a subtle, inconspicuous transition from life to death.
Overall, "shuffles off" conveys a subdued, unobtrusive movement or departure, often accompanied by a sense of secrecy, hesitancy, or the desire to avoid attention.
The phrase "shuffles off" is a combination of the verb "shuffle" and the preposition "off". "Shuffle" comes from the Middle English word "shovelen", which means "to move in a dragging or scraping manner". It is derived from the Old English word "scoflan", meaning "to shovel", and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "skublojanan".
The preposition "off" is derived from the Old English word "of", related to the Old High German word "af" and the Old Norse word "af". It evolved over time to its current form and has been used in various contexts to indicate movement away or separation.
When combined, "shuffle off" generally means to depart or move away, especially in a slow or reluctant manner. This phrase often implies a sense of weariness or resignation in the movement or departure.
