shorthand
UK[ˈʃɔːthænd]US[ˈʃɔːrthænd]
n
a method of rapid writing using symbols or abbreviations to represent sounds, words, or phrases.
n
a brief or quick way of referring to or expressing something.
Morpheme Breakdown
short
hand
short
not long, brief
hand
the terminal part of the arm
Etymology
the word "shorthand" is a transparent compound formed from two native english elements. the concept literally means "short hand," referring to the abbreviated writing produced by the hand, in contrast to the "long hand" of ordinary writing. it first appeared in english in the 1630s, specifically denoting systems like those developed by timothy bright (1588) and later isaac pitman. the term elegantly captures the core principle of the method: achieving speed and brevity in manual transcription. its second, figurative meaning—a concise way of expressing something—logically extends from this original, literal sense.
Analysis
Structure: short + hand
short (old english, meaning "not long, brief") + hand (old english, meaning "the terminal part of the arm")
Examples
the court reporter took down the testimony in shorthand.
"the big apple" is often used as shorthand for new york city.
she learned pitman shorthand to become a secretary.