shorthand

[ shawrt-hand ]

/ ˈʃɔrtˌhænd /

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See synonyms for shorthand on Thesaurus.com

noun

a method of rapid handwriting using simple strokes, abbreviations, or symbols that designate letters, words, or phrases (distinguished from longhand).

a simplified or makeshift manner or system of communication: We spoke in a kind of pidgin shorthand to overcome the language barrier.

adjective

using or able to use shorthand.

written in shorthand.

of or relating to shorthand.

QUIZ

THINGAMABOB OR THINGUMMY: CAN YOU DISTINGUISH BETWEEN THE US AND UK TERMS IN THIS QUIZ?

Do you know the difference between everyday US and UK terminology? Test yourself with this quiz on words that differ across the Atlantic.

Question 1 of 7

In the UK, COTTON CANDY is more commonly known as…

candystring

candyfloss

candypuff

TAKE THE QUIZ TO FIND OUT

Origin of shorthand

First recorded in 1630–40; short + hand

How to use shorthand in a sentence

This is referred to by people today who recognize the existential danger by the short-hand acronym of ‘TBDO’—‘The Big Die Off.’
Wingnuts Excerpt—The Hatriots: Armed and Dangerous|John Avlon|March 30, 2010|DAILY BEAST
Some cure at short hand, some miles distant from the patient.
As A Chinaman Saw Us|Anonymous
He reasoned with his own conscience in the quick short-hand of thought.
The Strand Magazine, Vol. 1 - No. 1,|Various
I cant read short-hand and you may get in a word I dont want you to take.
Polly in New York|Lillian Elizabeth Roy

My new companion was a short-hand reporter of one of the London papers, and thoroughly acquainted in Westminster.
The Youthful Wanderer|George H. Heffner
In the search after short-hand truth, it is but natural that the would-be learner gets bewildered, and asks, "What shall I do?"
Work for Women|George J. Manson

British Dictionary definitions for shorthand

shorthand

/ (ˈʃɔːtˌhænd) /

noun

a system of rapid handwriting employing simple strokes and other symbols to represent words or phrases
(as modifier)a shorthand typist

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

shorthand

Origin of shorthand

Words related to shorthand

How to use shorthand in a sentence

British Dictionary definitions for shorthand