Street
short
What does short mean?
Describing an inmate close to their release date. Someone counting down is 'getting short' or 'a short-timer.'
"Don't start trouble with him, he's way too short to risk it."
Origin
From 'short time' remaining on a sentence; military and prison usage.
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean to be 'short' in prison?
It means having little time left to serve before release.
What is a 'short-timer'?
It's an inmate who is close to their release date and counting down the remaining time.
Where does 'short' come from?
It comes from 'short time' remaining on a sentence, a usage shared by the military and prison.
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