shorthand

noun

short·​hand ˈshȯrt-ˌhand How to pronounce shorthand (audio)
Synonyms of shorthandnext
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
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.
But in terms of mood, romance, and other such shorthands of wellness? — Lela London, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026 The Pole in the steel mill, the Irish cop walking a beat, the Italian girl learning shorthand at night. — Anthony Scaramucci, Fortune, 28 June 2026 While the bus is stopped, Daniel takes his silly ass bowling alone, the ultimate loneliness shorthand. — Rebecca Alter, Vulture, 29 June 2026 This has become the shorthand for the way that companies and their platforms start out with this promise of empowerment. — Charlie Warzel, The Atlantic, 19 June 2026 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

Phrases Containing shorthand

Rhymes for shorthand

See All Rhymes for shorthand

Browse Nearby Words

short-haired
shorthand
shorthanded
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Cite this Entry

“Shorthand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shorthand. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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
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