short (redirected from be caught short)

short

In programming, an integer variable. In C, a short is two bytes and can be signed (-32K to +32K) or unsigned (64K). Contrast with long.

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short

1. Prosody

a. denoting a vowel that is phonetically short or a syllable containing such a vowel. In classical verse short vowels are followed by one consonant only or sometimes one consonant plus a following l or r

b. (of a vowel or syllable in verse that is not quantitative) not carrying emphasis or accent; unstressed

2. (of a drink of spirits) undiluted; neat

3. a drink of spirits as opposed to a long drink such as beer

4. Phonetics Prosody a short vowel or syllable

5. a short film, usually of a factual nature

6. See short circuit

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short [shȯrt]

(electricity)

short circuit

(engineering)

In plastics injection molding, the failure to fill the mold completely. Also known as short shot.

(ordnance)

A bomb or projectile hit short of the target.