noun
Uncommon
shorthand
SHAWT-hand
Shorthand (noun) means a fast system of writing using symbols or abbreviations instead of full words. Example: “The secretary took notes in shorthand during the meeting.”
noun
1
A fast system of writing using symbols or abbreviations instead of full words.
"The secretary took notes in shorthand during the meeting."
2
A quick, informal way of referring to or explaining something.
"People use "the Big Apple" as shorthand for New York City."
"In shorthand, we just call the project "Phase 2"."
How to use shorthand
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA fast writing system, or any quick way of saying something complex.
Common pairings
write in shorthand
a shorthand for
legal shorthand
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Word forms
- Plural
- shorthands
- Third person singular
- shorthands
- Past tense
- shorthanded
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The secretary took notes in _____ during the meeting.
Etymology
From short + hand, in the sense of "handwriting" or "style of penmanship".
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “shorthand” mean?
The word “shorthand” means a fast system of writing using symbols or abbreviations instead of full words. In plain terms, a fast writing system, or any quick way of saying something complex.
How do you pronounce “shorthand”?
“Shorthand” is pronounced SHAWT-hand (/ˈʃɔɹthænd/ in IPA).
How do you use “shorthand” in a sentence?
Here is “shorthand” used in a sentence: “The secretary took notes in shorthand during the meeting.”
What part of speech is “shorthand”?
“Shorthand” is a noun.
Is “shorthand” a common word?
“Shorthand” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “shorthand” have?
“Shorthand” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a fast system of writing using symbols or abbreviations instead of full words.
