shorthand

noun

short·​hand ˈshȯrt-ˌhand How to pronounce shorthand (audio)
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 shorthandStephanie Ericsson
headline shorthand
shorthand adjective

Examples of shorthand in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The term has become shorthand for the kind of fizzy, unputdownable books that lend themselves to lounging all day with a drink bearing a tiny umbrella by your side. Lizz Schumer, People.com, 3 July 2025 For many in Austin, this phrase has become shorthand for the forces bringing higher prices and displacement of established culture. Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 In the Hollywood blockbuster, The Devil Wears Prada, Meryl Streep’s Miranda Priestly—allegedly modeled on Wintour—became a cinematic shorthand for power, polish and control. Jeetendr Sehdev, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 Much like the likes of Ocasio-Cortez, Nancy Pelosi, and Hillary Clinton, Mamdani is about to become shorthand on Fox News and the MAGAverse for rightwing attacks. Philip Elliott, Time, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for shorthand

Word History

First Known Use

1636, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shorthand was in 1636

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Cite this Entry

“Shorthand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shorthand. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

shorthand

noun
short·​hand ˈshȯrt-ˌhand How to pronounce shorthand (audio)
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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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