short-circuit

1 of 2

verb

short-cir·​cuit ˈshȯrt-ˈsər-kət 

short-circuited; short-circuiting; short-circuits

transitive verb

1

: to apply a short circuit to or establish a short circuit in

2

: bypass sense 2

3

: frustrate, impede

intransitive verb

: to become shunted by a short circuit

The radio short-circuited.

short circuit

2 of 2

noun

: a connection of comparatively low resistance accidentally or intentionally made between points on a circuit between which the resistance is normally much greater

Synonyms

Verb

• impede
• hinder
• hamper
• obstruct
• embarrass

Examples of short-circuit in a Sentence

Verb

for decades the maverick filmmaker was short-circuited by a chronic lack of funds

Noun

The fire was caused by a short circuit.

Recent Examples on the Web

Verb

The team’s gold cuboid antenna measured 300 by 300 by 50 nanometers, but uneven currents would generate filaments that eventually short-circuited the pixel. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2025

But that zeal short-circuited the team’s only real chance against Blake Snell. —Andy McCullough, New York Times, 14 Oct. 2025

Noun

Their practical use has been stalled by traditional liquid electrolytes that pose severe risks, including leakage, combustion, and the formation of lithium dendrites—microscopic metal spikes that can cause short circuits. —Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 26 Oct. 2025

Lastly, ensure the filter is thoroughly dry before reinstalling it to prevent an accidental short circuit inside the unit. —Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 23 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1867, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Noun

1854, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for short-circuit

• burkitt
• circuit

Kids Definition

short-circuit

1 of 2 verb

short-cir·​cuit

-ˈsər-kət

: to make a short circuit in or have a short circuit

short circuit

2 of 2 noun

: an electrical connection made between points in an electric circuit between which current does not normally flow