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Definition of shortness

shortness

/ˈʃɔːrt.nəs/
short · ness
Adverb:shortly
•
Adjective:short
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shortness Lexical Profile

shortness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A deficiency, insufficiency, or lack of something, especially in the phrase "shortness of breath."

Example

"The patient visited the clinic after experiencing persistent fatigue and shortness of breath."

2

The state or quality of being small in physical length, distance, or stature.

Example

"The shortness of the rope prevented the climbers from reaching the lower ledge."

3

The quality of lasting only a brief period of time or using very few words.

Example

"Despite the shortness of the winter days, the researchers managed to complete their outdoor survey."

4

Abruptness or discourteousness in manner or speech.

Example

"He later apologized for the shortness of his reply during the stressful meeting."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for shortness

• Nearby Words

shortish
shortlist
shortly
shortness
shortnose sturgeon
shorts
shortsighted

Cite this Entry

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