Shorthands

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A typographic or linguistic abbreviation that simplifies lengthy expressions into shorter forms for efficiency in writing or communication
2. A form of condensed notation that allows for quicker recording of information by using simplified symbols or shortened words
3. A concise representation of information intended to facilitate faster understanding and processing within a given context

Etymology: "Shorthands" is simply the plural of "shorthand," a noun that combines "short" with "hand," the old word for handwriting or a particular style of penmanship. Put together, the compound described writing made quicker by abbreviating it, which is exactly the sense the plural now carries: several distinct systems of abbreviated writing. The plural form points to the fact that "shorthand" is not one thing but a family of systems. Each system is a separate method for recording speech at roughly the pace it is spoken, and so each has its own set of symbols and rules. Because they differ from one another, speakers naturally refer to them in the plural when comparing them.

Synonyms: abbreviations, shortcuts, symbols