Short is a surname of English origin, derived from the Middle English word schort meaning “short.” It originated as a descriptive nickname for a person of short stature, a common practice in medieval England where physical characteristics were often used as distinguishing labels. The surname first appears in records in the 13th century, such as William Schort in the Hundred Rolls of 1273.
The name has since become established across English-speaking world, with notable bearers in various fields. In politics, Ambrose Short (1855–1901) served as the 21st Lieutenant Governor of Mississippi. In the entertainment industry, Martin Short (born 1950) is a prominent Canadian-American actor and comedian. In science, James Short (1720–1761) was a Scottish mathematician and optician known for his work on telescopes.
As a toponym, the name appears in the United States: Short is an unincorporated community in Tishomingo County, Mississippi, and a census-designated place in Sequoyah County, Oklahoma. Derived terms include “Short money,” a dialectal term possibly referring to quick payment, and “Shortstown,” a village in England.
The surname is also present in other cultures, such as Swedish Kort meaning “short,” or as a translation of German Kurz and Jewish Kurzrock.
- Meaning: nickname for a short person
- Origin: Middle English schort
- Type: descriptive surname
- Usage: primarily English-speaking countries
Sources: Wiktionary — Short