Available Definitions:
1) n. - The act of making or becoming short or shorter.
2) n. - That which renders pastry short or friable, as butter, lard, etc.
3) a. - To make deficient (as to); to deprive; -- with of.
4) a. - To make short or friable, as pastry, with butter, lard, pot liquor, or the like.
5) v. i. - To become short or shorter; as, the day shortens in northern latitudes from June to December; a metallic rod shortens by cold.