short circuits

Noun

short circuit (plural short circuits)

1. A usually unintentional connection of low resistance or impedance in a circuit such that excessive and often damaging current flows in it.
   • One issue surrounds residual current devices (RCDs), the safety devices found in fuse boxes that sense when current is leaking to ground – a sign of electrocution or a short circuit – and almost instantaneously cut power. Most RCDs used in the UK aren’t suitable for current flowing in both...2026 April 1, Matthew Sparkes, “Plug-in solar is coming – how dangerous is it and is it worth it? Plug-in solar panels are a cheaper, simpler alternative to professionally installed panels. But can...

   Synonyms:

   short

2. (broadly, figuratively) A logical disconnect, such as cognitive dissonance or poor analysis.
   • The Jewish Community Relations Council does work on racism and multicultural issues, but they don't address anti-Arab racism in this work. They see that as 'political.' It's like they have a short-circuit inside them.1990 February 11, Tatiana Schreiber, quoting Sharon Jaffe, “End the Occupation!”, in Gay Community News, volume 17, number 30, page 10

See all 8 meanings of short circuit