Curtailed: meaning, definitions and examples
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curtailed
[ kərˈteɪld ]
reduced duration
Curtailed means to shorten something by reducing its extent or duration. This can refer to actions, events, or processes that are cut short intentionally or as a result of circumstances. The word often implies a limitation imposed on what was previously planned or expected. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly when discussing policies, budgets, or events that have been abbreviated.
Synonyms
abridged, diminished, reduced, shortened
Examples of usage
- The meeting was curtailed due to time constraints.
- His budget was curtailed by unexpected expenses.
- The festival was curtailed because of bad weather.
Word origin
The word 'curtail' comes from the Middle French 'courteler,' which means to cut short or cut off. This, in turn, is derived from the Old French 'cort,' meaning short. The term made its way into English in the late 14th century. It originally referred to the physical act of cutting something, but over time it evolved to have a broader application, including abstract contexts such as time, events, and resources. The usage of the word has continually expanded, making 'curtail' a versatile term that is often used in discussions related to reductions, limitations, or constraints imposed on various aspects of life, such as governmental policies, budgets, and personal activities.