short list

noun

: a limited list of important items or individuals

especially : a list of candidates for final consideration (as for a position or a prize)

short-list

ˈshȯrt-ˌlist 

transitive verb

Examples of short list in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Hughes’ friend, Detroit Red Wings center Dylan Larkin, has asked for a trade and has Minnesota on his short list of preferred destinations. — Michael Russo, New York Times, 16 Sep. 2026

Both are also on this year’s Ballon d’Or short list — at 30 names, the list really isn’t that short — alongside seven other players younger than 26. — Los Angeles Times, 15 Sep. 2026

What’s Happening Reviews from four national outlets have converged on a short list of standouts in the countertop ice maker category. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 14 Sep. 2026

Here is a short list of the cars recommended by IIHS and Consumer Reports for teenagers shopping for a car. — Dale Denwalt, Oklahoman, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for short list

• assist
• blacklist
• booklist
• checklist
• consist
• desist
• dismissed
• enlist
• exist
• insist
• oocyst
• persist