1. the quality or state of being short in length, height, or duration
2. lack of adequate supply or amount
3. abruptness or curtness in manner or speech

Examples

• The shortness of the meeting surprised everyone.
• Due to the shortness of supplies, we had to ration food.
• His shortness with customers cost him the job.
• The shortness of her dress made her uncomfortable.
• I apologize for the shortness of my reply.
• The shortness of breath indicated a serious condition.
• The shortness of the rope prevented us from reaching the bottom.