shortening

noun

short·​en·​ing ˈshȯrt-niŋ 

ˈshȯr-tᵊn-iŋ

1

: the action or process of making or becoming short

specifically : the dropping of the latter part of a word so as to produce a new and shorter word of the same meaning

2

: an edible fat used to shorten baked goods

Examples of shortening in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Break up shortening in a few smaller pieces with a fork. —Jenavieve Christensen, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Nov. 2025

Dissolve soda in milk; stir into shortening mixture. —Molly Guthrey, Twin Cities, 8 Nov. 2025

The extra rich dinner rolls are made with shortening and are run through a vintage sheeter to create their signature flaky layers. —Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 8 Nov. 2025

That’s because plyometrics involve quick movements and concentric (shortening) and eccentric (lengthening) muscle contractions. —Jenny McCoy, SELF, 24 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1538, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for shortening

• foreshortening

Kids Definition

shortening

noun

short·​en·​ing

ˈshȯrt-niŋ, 

-ᵊn-iŋ

1

: a making or becoming short or shorter

2

: a fat (as butter or lard) used in baking especially to make pastry flaky or crumbly