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Definition of shortchange

shortchange

/ˌʃɔːrtˈtʃeɪndʒ/
short · change
Past Simple:shortchanged
•
Past Participle:shortchanged
•
Present Participle:shortchanging
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shortchange Lexical Profile

shortchange Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To treat someone or something unfairly by withholding deserved value, attention, resources, or recognition.

Example

"Cutting the arts budget will only shortchange students who rely on creative programs at school."

2

To give someone less money in change than is due in a commercial transaction, either deliberately or by mistake.

Example

"The cashier accidentally shortchanged me by five dollars, so I politely pointed out the error."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for shortchange

• Nearby Words

shortage
shortbread
shortcake
shortchange
shortcoming
shortcrust
shortcut

Word Origin & Etymology

Originated in early 20th-century American English as a verb converted from the noun phrase 'short change', referring to the dishonest practice of returning less money than owed to a customer.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Shortchange. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/shortchange
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