shorthand

American  

[shawrt-hand] / ˈʃɔrtˌhænd /

noun

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

2. a simplified or makeshift manner or system of communication.

   We spoke in a kind of pidgin shorthand to overcome the language barrier.

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adjective

1. using or able to use shorthand.

2. written in shorthand.

3. of or relating to shorthand.

shorthand British  

/ ˈʃɔːtˌhænd /

noun

1. 1. a system of rapid handwriting employing simple strokes and other symbols to represent words or phrases

   2. ( as modifier )

      a shorthand typist

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Etymology

Origin of shorthand

First recorded in 1630–40; short + hand

Example Sentences

What it does do is communicate excess, a visual shorthand for power that prioritizes appearance over function.

From Salon

Kimchi - sharp, funky, fermented cabbage - has become a kind of shorthand for Korean food in the UK.

From BBC

The approach was internally called LUPO, shorthand for “local user preference optimization,” people involved in model training said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Both the Nuremberg shorthand and Mr. Deluzio’s claim miss the mark: There is no general, affirmative legal duty to disobey an unlawful order.

From The Wall Street Journal

And it’s not exactly a puzzle how gravy made the leap from kitchen staple to shorthand for little luxuries.

From Salon

Related Words

• calligraphy
• handwriting
• print
• script