Short Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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short
[ʃɔːt ]
Definitions
description
measuring a small distance from end to end; not long.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| short |
Used to describe something that has a small length, duration, or size. It is a general term and can be used in various contexts.
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| brief |
Typically describes something of limited duration or extent. Often used in professional, formal, or informative contexts.
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| concise |
Describes language or text that is clearly expressed in a few words. Often used in writing or speaking to imply efficiency and clarity.
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| compact |
Refers to something that is small and efficiently designed or organized. Often used to describe objects or layout.
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Examples of usage
- a short skirt
- a short distance
- short hair
time
a short film or story.
Synonyms
brief film, quick story.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| short |
When talking about something that does not take a lot of time to watch or read. It's very general and can be used in various contexts.
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Examples of usage
- a collection of shorts
- a short film festival
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- Short films are an important part of the film industry, often showcasing unique creativity in a concise format.
- In literature, many famous pieces are categorized as 'short stories,' engaging readers quickly with impactful narratives.
- The term 'short' has appeared in many song lyrics, emphasizing brevity in love or moments.
Science
- Short wavelengths in the light spectrum, like blue or violet, are visible to the human eye and carry higher energy.
- In genetics, 'short' can refer to genes that are deficient in length, which can affect biological functions.
- In physics, shorter distances are often related to increased energy transfer efficiency in systems.
Psychology
- Research suggests that people perceive time as shorter or longer based on their emotional state.
- Cognitive studies show 'short' tasks can lead to greater satisfaction when completed quickly, boosting motivation.
- The 'shortness' of an experience can affect memory recall, with brief but intense moments often being more memorable.
Literature
- In poetry, brevity is considered an art; short poems like haikus capture beauty in just a few lines.
- Classic literature often uses 'short' chapters to maintain pacing and keep readers engaged.
- Authors like Ernest Hemingway were known for their 'short' and impactful writing style, emphasizing clarity.
Origin of 'short'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'short' comes from the Old English 'sceort,' which means brief or little.
- It has Germanic roots, appearing as 'kurz' in German, which also means short.
- In various languages, the term conveys similar ideas of limited length or duration.
The word 'short' has Old English origins, derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'skurtaz'. It has been used in English for centuries to describe something that is not long in length or duration. Over time, its meanings have expanded to include various contexts such as time, clothing, and distance.
See also: shortage, shortbread, shortcomings, shortcut, shortcuts, shorten, shortened, shortening, shortenings, shortfall, shortly, shortness, shortsighted.