shorthanded

adjective

short·​hand·​ed ˌshȯrt-ˈhan-dəd How to pronounce shorthanded (audio)
: having, working with, or done with fewer than the regular or necessary number of people

Examples of shorthanded in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Harper also blanketed Kevin Durant on defense as the shorthanded Celtics, who were playing without Jaylen Brown, Sam Hauser and Simons/Vucevic, blew out the Rockets 114-93 on the second night of a back-to-back. Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 6 Feb. 2026 Rose, Ma and guard Rosa Smith played all 40 minutes for the shorthanded Tritons; Condron and Maxie played 38 and 34 minutes, respectively. Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 30 Jan. 2026 Minnesota got power play goals from Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek and a shorthanded goal from Matt Boldy, but was stifled defensively much of the night, most notably at even strength. Jess Myers, Twin Cities, 25 Jan. 2026 Mintyukov’s hesitation at the blue line sent Armia off on a shorthanded breakaway, resulting in a backhand that was narrowly saved by Dostál. Andrew Knoll, Oc Register, 17 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shorthanded

Word History

First Known Use

1794, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shorthanded was in 1794

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Cite this Entry

“Shorthanded.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shorthanded. Accessed 7 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

shorthanded

adjective
short·​hand·​ed -ˈhan-dəd How to pronounce shorthanded (audio)
: having or working with fewer than the usual number of people
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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