Definition

To make something shorter or to reduce its amount or extent.

Example

The school decided to curtail the summer vacation by two weeks.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I think we should curtail our spending this month.

That's a good idea, especially with the holidays coming up.

Yeah, maybe we can find some cheaper activities to do together.

Definitely! It's all about balancing fun and saving money.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Curtail → It is formed from "curtus" (meaning short) and the suffix "-ail" (a variant of the Old French "-ailler", meaning to cut). The word "curtail" means to cut short or reduce something.

Memory Tip

Think of something being made 'short' ('curtus') — that's why curtail means to cut something short.

Visually Confused Words