English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology
FreeDict.com
noun Uncommon

shorty

SHAW-tee

Shorty (noun) means someone or something shorter than average; often used as an affectionate nickname. Example: “His friends have called him "Shorty" since school.”

noun
1
Someone or something shorter than average; often used as an affectionate nickname.
"His friends have called him "Shorty" since school."
2
A wetsuit with short arms and legs.
"She wore a shorty for the warmer summer surf."

How to use shorty

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishAn informal, often affectionate name for a short person, or a short-sleeved wetsuit.

When to use it

Informal; as a term for a person, tone depends heavily on context and relationship.

Word forms

shorties plural

Study it as flashcards or scroll it in Flow — saved to your collection.
Test yourself on “shorty” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

His friends have called him "_____" since school.

Etymology

From short + -y.

Rhymes for shorty

See all rhymes for shorty →

Frequently asked questions

What does “shorty” mean?

The word “shorty” means someone or something shorter than average; often used as an affectionate nickname. In plain terms, an informal, often affectionate name for a short person, or a short-sleeved wetsuit.

How do you pronounce “shorty”?

“Shorty” is pronounced SHAW-tee (/ˈʃoɹ.ti/ in IPA).

How do you use “shorty” in a sentence?

Here is “shorty” used in a sentence: “His friends have called him "Shorty" since school.”

What part of speech is “shorty”?

“Shorty” is a noun.

Is “shorty” a common word?

“Shorty” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “shorty” have?

“Shorty” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: someone or something shorter than average; often used as an affectionate nickname.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial