Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Shakedown \Shake"down`\, n.
   A temporary substitute for a bed, as one made on the floor or
   on chairs; -- perhaps originally from the shaking down of
   straw for this purpose. --Sir W. Scott.

Source : WordNet®

shakedown
     adj : intended to test a new system under operating conditions and
           to familiarize the operators with the system; "a
           shakedown cruise"
     n 1: initial adjustments to improve the functioning or the
          efficiency and to bring to a more satisfactory state;
          "the new industry's economic shakedown"
     2: a very thorough search of a person or a place; "a shakedown
        by the police uncovered the drugs"
     3: extortion of money (as by blackmail)