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

The leading actor sourced and supplied personal pieces for both projects, and approaches costuming as a shorthand into showcasing his characters’ personality. —Kristen Tauer, Footwear News, 29 Jan. 2026

Spies have codes; collaborators have shorthand. —Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 29 Jan. 2026

Over time, efficiency becomes shorthand for smoothness. —Benjamin Laker, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026

The backstory The Victorian splendor of the Columns Hotel (built in the 1830s) has long been shorthand for a certain type of uptown sophistication in New Orleans. —Paul Oswell, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1636, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing shorthand

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

Rhymes for shorthand

• armband
• backhand
• bandstand
• baseband
• broadband
• command
• cropland
• demand
• disband
• dreamland
• expand
• farmhand

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