shortweight

[shawrt-weyt]

verb (used with object)

1. to give less than the weight charged for.

   The firm is accused of shortweighting grain.

noun

1. the insufficient weight given in this manner.

Word History and Origins

Origin of shortweight¹

First recorded in 1925–30; short + weight

Example Sentences

Since the power to license is the power to reform, Commissioner Moss, who is as notable for his integrity as for his dapper dress, lost no time suppressing shortweight ice dealers, market racketeers, dirty magazine publishers.

Read more on Time Magazine Archive

That he "sold shortweight coal in Denver, blackmailing and browbeating customers."

Read more on Time Magazine Archive

Heywood Broun: ". . . . emotionally shortweight."

Read more on Time Magazine Archive