The word "shorthand" refers to a quick and abbreviated way of writing or typing down words and phrases. It helps to take notes or record information more efficiently. Full definition
In his «Schmagoo» paintings, a term Bradley thinks of as shorthand for «Primordial Muck,» Bradley scrawls cartoon hieroglyphs like Superman's iconic logo in imperfect lines of grease pencil on white canvas. (bigredandshiny.org)
In pop culture, OCD is often used as a kind of shorthand for fastidiousness. (businessinsider.com)
Bly doesn't deny that Maran is transparent about her ingredients — they're fully disclosed on the Josie Maran Cosmetics Web site, after all — but she says that the symbols Maran uses as shorthand for what you won't find in her products don't paint a sufficient picture of how natural — or unnatural — they are. (treehugger.com)