Dictionary Home »
Phrase Meanings » sell short
What does "sell short" mean?
-
Contract for the sale of securities or commodities one expects to own at a later date and at a lower price, as in Selling short runs the risk of a market rise, forcing one to pay more than one expected. [Mid-1800s]
-
sell someone short. Underestimate the true value or worth of someone, as in Don't sell her short; she's a very able lawyer. [First half of 1900s]
Learn more about sell short