short list

noun

: a limited list of important items or individuals
especially : a list of candidates for final consideration (as for a position or a prize)
short-list transitive verb

Examples of short list in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Moore also runs a heavily Democratic state and has ruled out running in the past, but his name keeps bubbling up on the short list. Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 14 Feb. 2026 Farmhouse guests have exclusive access to a short list of premium treatments, which are more intensive than is typically possible at the main spa building. Paul Brady, Travel + Leisure, 10 Feb. 2026 After making a short list of preferred firms, review client testimonials and success rates. Gretchen Wittenmyer-Stone february 10, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 10 Feb. 2026 While Beshear has yet to announce an official run for presidency, the governor's increasingly-frequent public appearances have helped earn him a spot on the unofficial short list of 2028 presidential candidates. Caroline Neal, Louisville Courier Journal, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for short list

Word History

First Known Use

1927, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of short list was in 1927

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Cite this Entry

“Short list.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/short%20list. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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