short–circuit verb
short–circuits; short–circuited; short–circuiting 1 a [+ obj] : to cause (something) to have a short circuit
▪ The lightning short-circuited the TV.
b [no obj] : to stop working because of a short circuit
▪ The lamp must have short-circuited. 2 [+ obj] : to avoid doing (something)
▪ The owners short-circuited [=bypassed, circumvented] the required inspection. 3 [+ obj] : to stop (efforts, plans, etc.) from succeeding
▪ The lawyers short-circuited [=frustrated, impeded] any attempt to sue the company.
▪ The lightning short-circuited the TV.
b [no obj] : to stop working because of a short circuit
▪ The lamp must have short-circuited.
▪ The owners short-circuited [=bypassed, circumvented] the required inspection.
▪ The lawyers short-circuited [=frustrated, impeded] any attempt to sue the company.
