1. plural of shrift; acts of hearing confession and giving absolution
Usage: archaic; religious
2. brief periods of time or attention given to something
Usage: usually in phrase ‘short shrift’

Examples

• The priest heard many shrifts during the holy season.
• In medieval times, shrifts were an important part of religious life.
• The proposal received short shrift from the committee.
• His complaints were given short shrift by management.
• The old traditions of shrifts have largely disappeared.
• She gave short shrift to anyone who disagreed with her plan.