I. ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷ noun
Etymology: short (I) + cut (easy passage)
1. : a route more direct or more quickly traveled than the one ordinarily taken
2. : a method of doing or achieving something more directly and quickly than by ordinary procedure
the shortcuts which we have worked out to make the work simple and easy — Tom Marvel
no panaceas or shortcuts to peace or stability — S.K.Padover
3. usually short cut : something cut into short parts ; specifically : tobacco cut in short bits instead of in long shreds
II. adjective
Etymology: short (II) + cut, past participle of cut
1. usually short-cut ˈ ̷ ̷| ̷ ̷ : cut so as to be short
2. : affording or constituting a shortcut