Somewhat curt because shy? (5)

I believe the answer is:

short

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'shy?' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

(Other definitions for short that I've seen before include "Of small duration" , "Concise" , "Cause to blow a fuse" , "Curt" , "Neat" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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