shorten

verbdiminish, decrease

Word Origin & History

1510s, "make shorter;" 1560s, "grow shorter," from short (adj.) + -en (1); the earlier form of the verb was simply short, from Old English sceortian "to grow short, become short; run short, fail," gescyrtan "to make short."

Example Sentences for shorten

Presently, to shorten his road, he left the park, and took to a lane outside it.

We'll enjoy the fine weather till it's time to shorten sail.

Treachery, too, stepped in to shorten the time still further.

I was making for Cattolica, but I missed my way in seeking to shorten it.

"Perhaps I can shorten the pedigree," said Haggerstone, tartly.

So say I. It's no time to shorten sail, with such a sea running.

Now, remember your promise, darling, and don't be vexed with me if I ask you to shorten it.

Shorten the skirt and it will make a stunning French doll costume.

I hadn't been more than a minute in the cabin after lending a hand to shorten sail.

Failing this, it should at least slacken the pace of its work and shorten its working day.

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Synonyms for shorten

verb diminish, decrease

Antonyms for shorten

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