shorten

短くする、少なくする

(verb-transitive) To make short or shorter.
(verb-transitive) Nautical To take in (a sail) so that less canvas is exposed to the wind, thereby reducing speed.
(verb-transitive) To reduce in force, efficacy, or intensity.
(verb-transitive) To add shortening to (dough) so as to make flaky.
(verb-intransitive) To become short or shorter.

delightful tale, though I have trouble pronouncing the names and I like that the title shorten to Miss Blah, which defines beauty pageants for me, a very enjoyable read