short-circuit

1 of 2

verb

short-cir·​cuit ˈshȯrt-ˈsər-kət How to pronounce short-circuit (audio)
short-circuited; short-circuiting; short-circuits

transitive verb

1
: to apply a short circuit to or establish a short circuit in
2
3

intransitive verb

: to become shunted by a short circuit
The radio short-circuited.

short circuit

2 of 2

noun

: a connection of comparatively low resistance accidentally or intentionally made between points on a circuit between which the resistance is normally much greater

Examples of short-circuit in a Sentence

Verb for decades the maverick filmmaker was short-circuited by a chronic lack of funds Noun The fire was caused by a short circuit.
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.
Verb
By stymying Butler, the Heat short-circuited the Warriors’ offensive engine. Danny Emerman, Mercury News, 26 Mar. 2025 Asiana Airlines: Spare lithium batteries and extra batteries that are 160 Wh or less must be packed in short-circuit proof packaging. Kathleen Magramo, CNN Money, 26 Mar. 2025
Noun
Putting heavy or edged objects atop the cord may damage or pinch it, potentially causing short circuits. Matthew Korfhage, WIRED, 24 Mar. 2025 Teachers also have access to the electrical panel to address frequent short circuits on the third floor that trip breaker switches when the heat is running. Maria Benevento, Kansas City Star, 21 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for short-circuit

Word History

First Known Use

Verb

1867, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Noun

1854, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of short-circuit was in 1854

Browse Nearby Words

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Cite this Entry

“Short-circuit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/short-circuit. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

short-circuit

1 of 2 verb
short-cir·​cuit
-ˈsər-kət
: to make a short circuit in or have a short circuit

short circuit

2 of 2 noun
: an electrical connection made between points in an electric circuit between which current does not normally flow
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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