shorten
verb (used with object)
had shortened
-
past perfectof shorten.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
These are naturally less sensitive to tiny defects on the crystal's surface, which had shortened magnon lifetimes in previous experiments.
From Science Daily ● Jul. 2, 2026
On its latest pass, the ALOS-2 spacecraft reported that the distance between itself and the ground had shortened as the Earth's surface had risen up under the force of the tremor.
From BBC ● Jan. 2, 2024
Shows such as “30 Rock,” “The Big Bang Theory” and “Friday Night Lights” all had shortened seasons.
From Washington Post ● May 2, 2023
He admits he had shortened notes to compensate for the abbey’s echo – then changed them back after realizing that the assembled orchestra would know how to handle the space.
From Seattle Times ● Apr. 24, 2023
Davos clutched at him as he left the bench, catching his sleeve with the fingers that Lord Stannis had shortened.
From "A Clash of Kings" by George R.R. Martin
