shorthand
shorthand Lexical Profile
shorthand Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A method of rapid writing that uses abbreviated symbols, strokes, or characters to represent letters, words, or phrases, used especially for taking dictation or transcribing speech.
"Before the widespread use of audio recorders, court clerks and journalists relied heavily on shorthand to capture spoken testimony verbatim."
A brief, simplified, or allusions-based way of referring to or communicating a complex concept, often shared among members of a particular group.
"In political journalism, the name of a capital city is frequently used as shorthand for the national government."
• adjective
Written in or using a system of rapid, abbreviated symbols for transcription.
"The reporter flipped through her shorthand notes before drafting the evening article."
Simplified, condensed, or serving as a quick, convenient way of expressing something more complex.
"The lecturer offered a shorthand explanation of the economic theory so the introductory students could grasp the basics."
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the early 17th century as a compound of 'short' and 'hand' (in the sense of handwriting), contrasting with 'longhand' to describe early English systems of rapid stenographic transcription.