Meaning : Make shorter than originally intended. Reduce or retrench in length or duration.
Example :
He shortened his trip due to illness.
Meaning : Reduce in scope while retaining essential elements.
Example :
The manuscript must be shortened.
Synonyms : abbreviate, abridge, contract, cut, foreshorten, reduce
Meaning : Make short or shorter.
Example :
Shorten the skirt.
Shorten the rope by a few inches.
Meaning : Become short or shorter.
Example :
In winter, the days shorten.
Meaning : Edit by omitting or modifying parts considered indelicate.
Example :
Bowdlerize a novel.
Synonyms : bowdlerise, bowdlerize, castrate, expurgate