shorthand

noun

short·​hand ˈshȯrt-ˌhand 

1

: a method of writing rapidly by substituting characters, abbreviations, or symbols for letters, sounds, words, or phrases : stenography

2

: something likened to shorthand especially in providing rapid or abbreviated communication or representation

stereotype and cliché serve a purpose as a form of shorthand

—Stephanie Ericsson

headline shorthand

shorthand adjective

Examples of shorthand in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Other drivers had previously attempted ‘The Double’ — the shorthand for a driver trying to run the 1,100 miles of the Indy 500 (INDYCAR) then the Coca-Cola 600 (NASCAR) — including Kurt Busch in 2014 and Tony Stewart in 1999 and 2001. —Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 27 May 2024

After replacing sweaters and kilts for skimpy two-pieces and making the move to hire dancers for their lineup, the crew became a pop-cultural shorthand for the kinds of girls guys wanted, and other girls wanted to be. —Lucy Ford, TIME, 23 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1636, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing shorthand

• in shorthand
• shorthand reporter
• shorthand typist
• take shorthand

Kids Definition

shorthand

noun

short·​hand ˈshȯrt-ˌhand 

1

: a method of rapid writing by using symbols for sounds, words, or phrases

2

: a short or quick way of showing or saying something

shorthand adjective