Definition

1. Noun:
   • The act or process of making something shorter: This refers to the action of decreasing the length, duration, or extent of something.
   • A fat, such as butter, lard, or vegetable oil, used in baking: This refers to a type of solid or semi-solid fat that is incorporated into dough or batter to make baked goods tender and flaky.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Act of decreasing length):

  • The shortening of the school day was met with mixed reactions from parents.
  • The tailor recommended a slight shortening of the sleeves.

• Noun (Fat used in baking):

  • The recipe calls for one cup of vegetable shortening.
  • Butter and shortening can often be used interchangeably in pie crusts.

Advanced Usage

• "Shortening of the odds": In gambling or betting contexts, this phrase refers to a decrease in the betting odds for a competitor, indicating they are now more likely to win.
  • The champion's impressive performance led to a significant shortening of the odds in his favor.

Variants and Related Words

• Shorten (verb): To make or become shorter.
  • Please shorten this essay by 200 words.
• Short (adjective): Of little length; not long.
  • It was a short meeting.

Synonyms

• Abbreviation: The process of shortening something, especially a word or phrase.
• Abridgment: The act of reducing the length of a written work.
• Fat: A general term for substances like butter or lard (specifically for the baking ingredient sense).

Related Phrases

• "Shortening agent": A technical term for the fat used in baking to "shorten" or break up gluten strands, creating a tender texture.
  • Hydrogenated vegetable oil is a common shortening agent.

Notes on Different Meanings

The two primary meanings of "shortening" are distinct. The first is an action related to reduction. The second is a substance used in cooking. Context always clarifies which meaning is intended. For example, discussing a recipe points to the fat, while discussing a schedule points to the act of making it shorter.

Noun

1. act of decreasing in length
   • the dress needs shortening
2. fat such as butter or lard used in baked goods