Smoothie vs. Shake — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman & Urooj Arif — Published on February 9, 2024
A smoothie is a blended, often nutritious beverage made from raw fruits, vegetables, and sometimes dairy, while a shake, typically a milkshake, is a sweet, creamy drink made with ice cream and flavorings.
Difference Between Smoothie and Shake
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Smoothies are known for their health benefits, often incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, and a liquid base like water, dairy, or plant milk. Shakes, on the other hand, are indulgent treats, traditionally blending ice cream with milk and flavorings or syrups, prioritizing taste over nutritional content.
While smoothies may include protein powders or supplements catering to health enthusiasts, shakes are more dessert-focused, featuring sweeteners, chocolate, or candy. Smoothies' texture is generally thicker due to the fiber in whole fruits and vegetables, whereas shakes are creamier and smoother.
The term 'smoothie' implies a health-conscious choice, suitable for breakfast or a nutritious snack. 'Shake,' especially when referred to as a 'milkshake,' suggests a delightful, decadent beverage often consumed as a dessert or special treat.
Smoothies often serve as meal replacements or supplements in fitness and health routines, packed with vitamins and minerals. Shakes, despite their delicious appeal, are rarely considered for their nutritional value but are a popular choice in diners and ice cream parlors for their rich, sweet flavors.
The preparation of smoothies typically involves a blender to process the whole ingredients into a fine, drinkable texture. Shakes, while also requiring a blender, focus more on blending ice cream to a smooth, sippable consistency, with the option of adding toppings like whipped cream or cherries.
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Comparison Chart
Word Origin
Derived from "smooth" referring to texture
From "shake," implying movement
Part of Speech
Noun
Noun
Word Usage
Used as a singular and plural noun
Used as a singular and plural noun
Common Contexts
Health, nutrition, fitness
Dessert, treat, fast food
Adjective Form
Smooth
Shaky (different meaning)
Compare with Definitions
Smoothie
A smoothie is a thick, smooth drink made from blended raw produce.
He added yogurt to his berry smoothie for extra creaminess.
Shake
A shake is a sweet, creamy drink made by blending ice cream with milk and flavorings.
He ordered a chocolate shake with extra whipped cream.
Smoothie
A smoothie can serve as a substitute for a meal, packed with essential nutrients.
For a quick lunch, she prefers a fruit and spinach smoothie.
Shake
Shake refers to a rapid, back-and-forth movement.
She had to shake the bottle vigorously to mix the contents.
Smoothie
A smoothie often includes supplements or protein powders catering to health-conscious individuals.
After her workout, she made a protein smoothie to help with recovery.
Shake
To shake can mean to tremble or quiver, often due to fear or cold.
He couldn't control the nervous shake in his hands before the presentation.
Smoothie
A smoothie is a blended mixture of fruits, vegetables, and other healthful ingredients.
She starts her day with a green smoothie to boost her energy.
Shake
A shake, often as in a handshake, symbolizes greeting, agreement, or parting.
They sealed the deal with a firm shake and smiles.
Smoothie
A smoothie is a beverage created by pureeing ingredients until smooth.
Their tropical smoothie is a blend of mango, pineapple, and coconut water.
Shake
To cause to move from side to side or up and down with jerky movements
I shook the juice container.
Smoothie
(Informal) A person regarded as being assured and artfully ingratiating in manner.
Shake
To cause to tremble, vibrate, or rock
The earthquake shook the ground. The wind shook the barley.
Smoothie
A drink that is made of fruit or sometimes vegetables and is blended with juice, milk, or yogurt and often ice until smooth.
Shake
To brandish or wave, especially in anger
Shake one's fist.
Smoothie
A smooth-talking person.
Shake
To cause to lose stability or strength, as of conviction
A crisis that has shaken my deepest beliefs.
Smoothie
A drink made from whole fruit, thus thicker than fruit juice.
Shake
To disturb or agitate emotionally; upset or unnerve
She was shaken by the news of the disaster.
Smoothie
(figurative) A blending of different things, a mishmash
Shake
To remove or dislodge by jerky movements
Shook the dust from the cushions.
Smoothie
A member of the mod subculture who is relatively non-violent and wears expensive clothing.
Shake
To scatter or strew by jerky movements
Shook the salt on the popcorn.
Smoothie
Someone with an assured and ingratiating manner
Shake
To get rid of or put an end to
Could not shake the feeling that things would not work out.
Wanted to shake his habit of snacking.
Smoothie
A thick smooth drink consisting of fresh fruit pureed with ice cream or yoghurt or milk
Shake
To get away from (a pursuer)
Couldn't shake the man who was following us.
Shake
To bring to a specified condition by or as if by shaking
"It is not easy to shake one's heart free of the impression" (John Middleton Murry).
Shake
To clasp (hands) in greeting or leave-taking or as a sign of agreement.
Shake
(Music) To trill (a note).
Shake
(Games) To rattle and mix (dice) before casting.
Shake
To move from side to side or up and down in short, irregular, often jerky movements
The trees shook in the wind.
Shake
To move something vigorously up and down or from side to side, as in mixing.
Shake
To tremble, as from cold or in anger.
Shake
To be unsteady; totter or waver.
Shake
(Music) To trill.
Shake
To shake hands
Let's shake on it.
Shake
The act of shaking
Gave the bottle a shake.
Shake
A trembling or quivering movement.
Shake
(Informal) An earthquake.
Shake
A fissure in rock.
Shake
A crack in timber caused by wind or frost.
Shake
(Informal) A moment or instant
I'll do it in a shake.
Shake
(Music) A trill.
Shake
See milkshake.
Shake
A beverage in which the ingredients are mixed by shaking.
Shake
A rough shingle used to cover rustic buildings, such as barns
Cedar shakes.
Shake
Shakes(Informal) Uncontrollable trembling, as in a person who is cold, frightened, feverish, or ill. Often used with the
Was suffering from a bad case of the shakes.
Shake
(Informal) A bargain or deal
Getting a fair shake.
Shake
To cause (something) to move rapidly in opposite directions alternatingly.
The earthquake shook the building.
He shook the can of soda for thirty seconds before delivering it to me, so that, when I popped it open, soda went everywhere.
Shake
(transitive) To move (one's head) from side to side, especially to indicate refusal, reluctance, or disapproval.
Shaking his head, he kept repeating “No, no, no”.
Shake
(transitive) To move or remove by agitating; to throw off by a jolting or vibrating motion.
To shake fruit down from a tree
Shake
(transitive) To disturb emotionally; to shock.
Her father’s death shook her terribly.
He was shaken by what had happened.
Shake
(transitive) To lose, evade, or get rid of (something).
I can’t shake the feeling that I forgot something.
Shake
(intransitive) To move from side to side.
She shook with grief.
Shake
To shake hands.
OK, let’s shake on it.
Shake
(intransitive) To dance.
She was shaking it on the dance floor.
Shake
To give a tremulous tone to; to trill.
To shake a note in music
Shake
To threaten to overthrow.
The experience shook my religious belief.
Shake
To be agitated; to lose firmness.
Shake
The act of shaking or being shaken; tremulous or back-and-forth motion.
The cat gave the mouse a shake.
She replied in the negative, with a shake of her head.
Shake
A twitch, a spasm, a tremor.
Shake
A milkshake.
Shake
A beverage made by adding ice cream to a (usually carbonated) drink; a float.
Shake
Shake cannabis, small, leafy fragments of cannabis that gather at the bottom of a bag of marijuana.
Shake
An adulterant added to cocaine powder.
Shake
(building material) A thin shingle.
Shake
A crack or split between the growth rings in wood.
Shake
A fissure in rock or earth.
Shake
A basic wooden shingle made from split logs, traditionally used for roofing etc.
Shake
(informal) Instant, second. (Especially in two shakes.)
Shake
(nautical) One of the staves of a hogshead or barrel taken apart.
Shake
(music) A rapid alternation of a principal tone with another represented on the next degree of the staff above or below it; a trill.
Shake
(music) In singing, notes (usually high ones) sung vibrato.
Shake
A shook of staves and headings.
Shake
The redshank, so called from the nodding of its head while on the ground.
Shake
A shock or disturbance.
Shake
To cause to move with quick or violent vibrations; to move rapidly one way and the other; to make to tremble or shiver; to agitate.
As a fig tree casteth her untimely figs, when she is shaken of a mighty wind.
Ascend my chariot; guide the rapid wheelsThat shake heaven's basis.
Shake
Fig.: To move from firmness; to weaken the stability of; to cause to waver; to impair the resolution of.
When his doctrines grew too strong to be shook by his enemies, they persecuted his reputation.
Thy equal fear that my firm faith and loveCan by his fraud be shaken or seduced.
Shake
To give a tremulous tone to; to trill; as, to shake a note in music.
Shake
To move or remove by agitating; to throw off by a jolting or vibrating motion; to rid one's self of; - generally with an adverb, as off, out, etc.; as, to shake fruit down from a tree.
Shake off the golden slumber of repose.
'Tis our fast intentTo shake all cares and business from our age.
I could scarcely shake him out of my company.
Shake
To be agitated with a waving or vibratory motion; to tremble; to shiver; to quake; to totter.
Under his burning wheelsThe steadfast empyrean shook throughout,All but the throne itself of God.
What danger? Who 's that that shakes behind there?
Shake
The act or result of shaking; a vacillating or wavering motion; a rapid motion one way and other; a trembling, quaking, or shivering; agitation.
The great soldier's honor was composedOf thicker stuff, which could endure a shake.
Our salutations were very hearty on both sides, consisting of many kind shakes of the hand.
Shake
A fissure or crack in timber, caused by its being dried too suddenly.
Shake
A fissure in rock or earth.
Shake
A rapid alternation of a principal tone with another represented on the next degree of the staff above or below it; a trill.
Shake
One of the staves of a hogshead or barrel taken apart.
Shake
A shook of staves and headings.
Shake
The redshank; - so called from the nodding of its head while on the ground.
Shake
Building material used as siding or roofing
Shake
Frothy drink of milk and flavoring and sometimes fruit or ice cream
Shake
A note that alternates rapidly with another note a semitone above it
Shake
Grasping and shaking a person's hand (as to acknowledge an introduction or to agree on a contract)
Shake
Reflex shaking caused by cold or fear or excitement
Shake
Causing to move repeatedly from side to side
Shake
Move or cause to move back and forth;
The chemist shook the flask vigorously
My hands were shaking
Shake
Move with or as if with a tremor;
His hands shook
Shake
Shake or vibrate rapidly and intensively;
The old engine was juddering
Shake
Move back and forth or sideways;
The ship was rocking
The tall building swayed
She rocked back and forth on her feet
Shake
Undermine or cause to waver;
My faith has been shaken
The bad news shook her hopes
Shake
Stir the feelings, emotions, or peace of;
These stories shook the community
The civil war shook the country
Shake
Get rid of;
I couldn't shake the car that was following me
Shake
Bring to a specified condition by or as if by shaking;
He was shaken from his dreams
Shake the salt out of the salt shaker
Shake
Shake (a body part) to communicate a greeting, feeling, or cognitive state;
Shake one's head
She shook her finger at the naughty students
The old enemies shook hands
Don't shake your fist at me!
Shake
Shake is a term in music, indicating a trill or vibrato effect.
The saxophonist's shake added a lively vibe to the jazz performance.
Common Curiosities
Are smoothies considered healthy?
Smoothies can be healthy depending on their ingredients. They often contain vitamins, fiber, and nutrients from fruits and vegetables.
Are there vegan or dairy-free smoothie options?
Absolutely, you can make vegan and dairy-free smoothies using ingredients like almond milk, coconut yogurt, or soy protein.
Can you add sweeteners to a smoothie?
You can add sweeteners like honey, agave syrup, or maple syrup to sweeten your smoothie, but it's often not necessary due to the natural sweetness of fruits.
Can you make a smoothie without a blender?
While a blender is the most common tool for making smoothies, you can use a food processor or even a hand mixer to create a smoothie-like consistency.
Can you add protein to a smoothie?
Yes, you can add protein sources like protein powder, Greek yogurt, or nut butter to make a protein-rich smoothie.
Are smoothies a good option for a quick breakfast or snack?
Yes, smoothies can be a convenient and nutritious choice for a quick breakfast or snack.
What's the texture of a well-made smoothie?
A well-made smoothie should have a thick, creamy, and smooth texture with no chunks or lumps.
What is a smoothie?
A smoothie is a thick, blended beverage made from raw fruits, vegetables, and other healthful ingredients, often used as a nutritious meal substitute.
What are some popular smoothie flavors?
Popular smoothie flavors include strawberry banana, tropical fruit, green smoothie (with spinach or kale), and berry blends.
What's the difference between a fruit smoothie and a green smoothie?
A fruit smoothie primarily contains fruits, while a green smoothie incorporates leafy greens like spinach or kale along with fruits.
Are there any savory smoothie recipes?
Yes, savory smoothies can include ingredients like avocado, cucumber, and herbs for a refreshing and less sweet option.
Can I use frozen fruits in a smoothie?
Yes, frozen fruits are commonly used in smoothies as they add thickness and can act as a natural ice substitute.
Can you use vegetables in smoothies?
Yes, vegetables like spinach, kale, carrots, and beets can be used in smoothies to boost their nutritional value.
What are some popular add-ins for extra nutrition in smoothies?
Popular add-ins include chia seeds, flaxseeds, hemp seeds, and greens like spirulina or wheatgrass for added nutrition.
What is a shake?
A shake is a beverage typically made with a base of ice cream or milk, blended with flavorings like chocolate, vanilla, or fruit.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
