a list of candidates selected from a longer list, and from which one or more successful candidates are in turn selected. / Used other than figuratively or idiomatically: see short, list.

To come to a sudden and unexpected stop, particularly while speaking or driving a vehicle. / Usually with of, to voluntarily cease an attempt to reach a certain point.

Meagre rations.

(idiomatic) to be less satisfactory than expected; to be inadequate or insufficient

Not having sufficient members of staff

(poker) A relatively small quantity of chips relative to the stakes. / (poker tournament) A quantity of chips which is far less than the average in the tournament.

(netball) A pass of the ball between teammates too close together to allow an opponent to get between them. There is no particular distance the ball must travel to qualify as a short pass. For instance, if the passing player drops the ball and retreats before her teammate takes possession, it is not a short pass. A short pass is against the rules and results in a free pass to the opposition.

(organic chemistry, of an aliphatic compound) Having a chain of fewer than about six carbon atoms.

The near future; a comparatively brief time period starting with the present moment (or other time of reference); the time in which immediate needs and goals are relevant.

plural of short end