prevent from entering; shut out; "The trees were shutting out all sunlight"; "This policy excludes people who have a criminal record from entering the country"
If you shut something such as a door or if it shuts, it moves so that it fills a hole or a space. Just make sure you shut the gate after you The screen door shut gently. = close open Shut is also an adjective. They have warned residents to stay inside and keep their doors and windows shut
When a store, bar, or other public building shuts or when someone shuts it, it is closed and you cannot use it until it is open again. There is a tendency to shut museums or shops at a moment's notice What time do the pubs shut? = close open Shut is also an adjective. Make sure you have food to tide you over when the local shop may be shut
If your mouth shuts or if you shut your mouth, you place your lips firmly together. Daniel's mouth opened, and then shut again He opened and shut his mouth, unspeaking. = close open Shut is also an adjective. She was silent for a moment, lips tight shut, eyes distant
If you keep your mouth shut, you do not express your opinions about something, even though you would like to. If she had kept her mouth shut she would still have her job now