Here's why:
* Syllables: "Wanted" has two syllables: "wan" and "ted". This means it's longer than a one-syllable word.
* Vowel sounds: It has three vowel sounds: "wa", "a", and "e".
* Consonants: It has three consonants: "w", "n", and "d".
Therefore, "wanted" is not a short word in terms of the number of syllables, vowel sounds, or consonants.