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

Boston said she and her collaborators would often reference specific films — everything from “The Celebration” to “Uncut Gems” — as a shorthand for the tone they were hoping to strike in a given episode.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 2026

News channel YTN lavished praise on Kang's "heartfelt message to Korea", referring to the movie by its affectionate shorthand "Kedehun", a combination of the title's first three syllables.

From Barron's • Mar. 16, 2026

The lime-green background and blurry typography on the cover of her sixth album, “Brat,” quickly became internet shorthand for the season’s pursuit of devil-may-care indulgence and personal adventure.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 17, 2026

But they suggest the perception of the "boys' club" was also a shorthand for something else.

From BBC • Feb. 14, 2026

Her dad tapped his temple, his shorthand for I can read your mind.

From "Book Scavenger" by Jennifer Chambliss Bertman

Related Words

• calligraphy
• handwriting
• print
• script