Tiny URL

Definition: A tiny URL is a URL (a.k.a. link, web address, etc.) that has been physically shortened so as to fit conveniently in a small space, such as a tweet, an email or a Facebook status. There are various free services online that create tiny URLs, appropriately named "URL shrinkers" and "URL shorteners."

To shrink a URL, simply visit one of these sites, copy and paste your original URL in the field provided, and click the button that prompts you to shrink it. A new URL will appear on the page, begining with the root of the service URL, followed by a slash, then a series of numbers and/or letters that correspond with page link you entered. You can then copy and paste this clean, simple, "tiny URL" anywhere you please.

Here are some examples of URL shortening services:

• twitbit.me
  
• bit.ly
  
• tinyurl.com
  
• ow.ly
  
• tr.im