Shake down Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Intensity Often implies an aggressive, thorough search. The guards are going to shake down the cell block tonight. Pro Tip 2/3Suspicion Used when suspecting illicit activity. Customs agents had to shake down the luggage for smuggled goods. Pro Tip 3/3Comprehensive Indicates a complete and detailed search. Before the festival, police will shake down the venue for safety.