# truncated

/ˈtɹəŋˌkeɪtɪd/ (US) · /tɹˈʌnkeɪtɪd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/truncated
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

shortened by having the top or the end cut off. You use this to describe something that is not as long as it should be.

For teachers: shortened in duration or extent by having a part cut off. Often used to describe data, texts, or physical objects that have been abruptly reduced in length.

## Examples

- The meeting was truncated because of a fire alarm.
- The software displays a truncated version of the file name if it is too long for the screen.
- Due to the sudden onset of the storm, the outdoor festival was truncated, leaving several of the headline acts unable to perform their full sets for the disappointed crowd.

## Usage notes

- Often follows a linking verb like 'appear' or 'seem', or precedes the noun it modifies.

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