D Definition of shorthand

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Definition of shorthand

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

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shorthand

 adjective

See shorthand defined for English-language learners

See shorthand defined for kids

Recent Examples of shorthand from the Web

• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is one of those mental health conditions that has become cultural shorthand in a pretty inappropriate way.
  —Christina Stiehl, SELF, "10 Things ADHD Is—and 3 It Isn't," 11 Mar. 2018
• Designs grew bolder and more fashionable; brand names became style shorthand.
  —Dan Greene, SI.com, "Flight of the Sole Man," 8 Mar. 2018
• In conversation, the two friends share an easy rapport and speak in a comfortable shorthand fueled by inside jokes and knowing smiles.
  —Catherine Womack, Los Angeles Magazine, "Keanu Reeves Is Publishing Books That Are Beautiful, Socially Conscious, and Worth Your Time," 23 Feb. 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'shorthand.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of shorthand

1636

SEE WORDS FROM THE SAME YEAR

NEW! Time Traveler

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Phrases Related to SHORTHAND

Related Phrases

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

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SHORTHAND Defined for English Language Learners

shorthand

noun

Definition of shorthand for English Language Learners

• : a method of writing quickly by using symbols or abbreviations for sounds, words, or phrases
• : a short or quick way of showing or saying something

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Learn More about shorthand

1. See words that rhyme with shorthandSpanish Central: Translation of shorthandNglish: Translation of shorthand for Spanish speakersBritannica.com: Encyclopedia article about shorthand