shorthand

noun

short·​hand ˈshȯrt-ˌhand 

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 shorthand

—Stephanie Ericsson

headline shorthand

shorthand adjective

Examples of shorthand in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But not all productions were on board, and even vintage and vegan fur raise questions about deploying the material as a shorthand for luxury. —Steven Zeitchik, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 Dec. 2024

The farm bill, shorthand for the omnibus bill that underpins SNAP and the farming sector, is passed in five-year increments, but Congress passed a one-year extension in 2023. —Zack Budryk, The Hill, 2 Dec. 2024

Lately, pop music has become even more reliant on visual shorthand, a series of unarticulated but essential codes, an unspoken, IYKYK insularity. —Amanda Petrusich, The New Yorker, 2 Dec. 2024

The phrase is now used in scientific papers as a shorthand for the technique. —Sigal Samuel, Vox, 21 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1636, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing shorthand

• in shorthand
• shorthand reporter
• shorthand typist
• take shorthand

Kids Definition

shorthand

noun

short·​hand ˈshȯrt-ˌhand 

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