The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 7 letter word STUNTED
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More clues leading to the result STUNTED
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Cut short" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case cut short = stunted.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does STUNTED mean?
STUNTED verb- (cheerleading) To perform a stunt.
- To show off; to posture.
- To check or hinder the growth or development of.
- Prevented from growing or developing
- Of a person: shorter than usual for their age.