Definition

Having fewer people than needed to operate effectively, often due to absences or penalties.

Example

The team was shorthanded after two players were injured during the game.

Conversation

I heard the team is a bit shorthanded for the game tonight.

Yeah, I think a couple of players are out with injuries.

That makes it tough to compete, especially against a strong opponent.

Definitely! They’ll have to step up their game to make up for it.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Shorthanded → It is formed from "short" (from Old English *sceort*, meaning not long) and "handed" (from "hand", meaning the part of the body at the end of the arm, combined with the suffix "-ed", indicating a state or condition). The word "shorthanded" means being in a situation where there are fewer people available than needed, as if one has shorter hands to accomplish a task.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'not long' ('short') and having 'hands' that are fewer than needed — that's why shorthanded means having fewer people to help.

Visually Confused Words