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 After assuring such technology on in-flight entertainment systems, Barco next expanded to hospitals and boardrooms, becoming so prevalent in the latter sphere that the brand itself became Gallic shorthand for conference room tech. Ben Croll, Variety, 15 May 2024 That’s scientific shorthand for the tornado's intensity and destructive power as measured on the Enhanced Fujita Scale. Frank Witsil, Detroit Free Press, 9 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for shorthand 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'shorthand.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1636, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shorthand was in 1636

Dictionary Entries Near shorthand

Cite this Entry

“Shorthand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shorthand. Accessed 18 May. 2024.

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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