short circuit
noun
an abnormal, usually unintentional condition of relatively low resistance between two points of different potential in a circuit, usually resulting in a flow of excess current.
has short-circuited
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present perfectof short-circuit (3rd person singular).present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
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.
“The energy price shock has short-circuited the monetary easing cycle,” said analysts Maybank.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 20, 2026
"Maybe it's the failure of Oslo that gave rise to the rather unconventional approach that Trump has taken, where he has short-circuited any sort of process and simply pressured and cajoled," Yacoubian said.
From Barron's ● Oct. 14, 2025
It is hard to overstate how much the pandemic has short-circuited the college experience and affected students’ well-being.
From Washington Post ● Feb. 25, 2022
I would be, but contemplating the appearance of this coat in this context has short-circuited my very understanding of sympathy.
From The New Yorker ● Jun. 21, 2018
Ten minutes ago I'd ha' eulogised about that little trick of ours, but Morgan's performance has short-circuited me.
From Traffics and Discoveries by Rudyard Kipling
