Phrase guide

shorten up

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

To make something shorter in height, briefer in duration or more close together.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: informal, intransitive, transitive

Examples

  • You have to shorten this movie up.
  • Muscles that don't get exercise will shorten up.
  • You can shrug by shortening up your shoulders and express anger or disgust by shortening up the upper lip.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.