shorten

verb

1. 1

   edit by omitting or modifying parts considered indelicate

   bowdlerize a novel

2. 2

   reduce in scope while retaining essential elements

   The manuscript must be shortened

3. 3

   become short or shorter

   In winter, the days shorten

4. 4

   make shorter than originally intended; reduce or retrench in length or duration

   He shortened his trip due to illness

5. 5

   make short or shorter

   shorten the skirt

   shorten the rope by a few inches