curt
/kɜːt/verb
To make something shorter; to cut it off or cut it down.
Example sentence
- “The editor curted the rambling introduction to a single paragraph.”
The everyday word is the adjective: a curt reply is so short it borders on rude. That clipped-speech sense is the one to know.
Featured as word of the day on February 13, 2026.
Related words
curtailThe curved, scroll-shaped end of a stair step or similar architectural feature.cursorThe small movable marker on a computer screen, often called a pointer, that shows where the pointing device is aimed.curtainA hanging piece of fabric used to cover a window, bed, or other opening.curriculumThe full range of subjects and lessons taught at a school, college, or university.cushionA cloth bag filled with soft material, placed on seats or leaned against for comfort.currencyThe money, or other means of payment, that people use to buy and sell things. 