shortcut
UK: ˈʃɔːtkʌt | US: ˈʃɔːrtkʌt
n. a quicker or more direct way to reach a destination or achieve a goal
n. (computing) a keyboard combination or icon that provides quick access to a function
vt. to take or use a shorter route
The word "shortcut" emerged in the 16th century, combining "short" (Old English scort, meaning "not long") and "cut" (Old Norse kuta, "to divide or pass through"). Originally describing physical paths, it later expanded metaphorically to efficiency in tasks and computing. The logic reflects the universal human preference for minimizing effort—whether in travel or workflow.
Hikers took a shortcut through the forest to save time.
Press Ctrl+C as a shortcut for copying text.
The app allows shortcut customization for frequent actions.
She shortcut the process by submitting the form online.
His clever shortcut solved the math problem in half the steps.