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

In a very large mixing bowl, beat butter and shortening with an electric mixer on medium to high speed for 30 seconds. —Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 May 2026

Always dry thoroughly, heat on the stovetop until completely dry, and apply a thin layer of oil or shortening. —Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 18 Apr. 2026

This movement engages the quad concentrically, which means the muscles contract while shortening, Mann said. —Julia Ries Wexler, Health, 15 Apr. 2026

Another major product was its shortening brand Crisco. —Alexander Coolidge, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026

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