shorten
verb (used with object)
has shortened
-
present perfectof shorten (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.
“Food-safety issues were more problematic for the industry prior to COVID-19 as well as the broader adoption of social media that we argue has shortened consumers’ attention spans,” the analysts wrote.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 9, 2026
It has shortened interpreter hours, powered down escalators and ignored loose cladding on its 75-year-old headquarters in New York.
From The Wall Street Journal ● May 30, 2026
Fuel rationing has shortened queues, but on Thursday, the government began limiting water supply hours to conserve reserves and save pumping costs.
From Barron's ● Apr. 4, 2026
And as this season of “Industry” reaches its big finale, the two women find that the tie binding them has shortened once again.
From Salon ● Mar. 1, 2026
“Man, have you no feeling for one who is old and infirm, and who has shortened his poor share of life in his efforts to save you from the misery of your lot?”
From Witness to the Deed by George Manville Fenn
