noun

1. The result of shortening or reducing; abridgment.

2. A shortened or contracted form of a word or phrase, used to represent the whole, utilizing omission of letters, and sometimes substitution of letters, or duplication of initial letters to signify plurality, including signs such as +, =, @.

3. The process of abbreviating.

Synonyms: abbreviature, abridgement, abstract, compend, compression, condensation, contraction, curtailment