shortage

noun

short·​age ˈshȯr-tij 

: lack, deficit

Synonyms

• crunch
• dearth
• deficiency
• deficit
• drought
• drouth
• failure
• famine
• inadequacy
• inadequateness
• insufficiency
• lack
• lacuna
• paucity
• pinch
• poverty
• scantiness
• scarceness
• scarcity
• undersupply
• want

Examples of shortage in a Sentence

there was a troubling shortage of supplies for the troops overseas this year

Recent Examples on the Web

Detainees have previously complained about constant violence, deplorable conditions, severe staffing shortages and the frequent smuggling of drugs and other contraband, the Associated Press reported in September. —Jonathan Limehouse, USA TODAY, 20 Dec. 2024

Yet the economy faces headwinds: a diminished work force, power shortages and a precarious fiscal position with a budget deficit nearing 20% of GDP in 2025. —Katya Soldak, Forbes, 20 Dec. 2024

At the end of the day that means more shortages and more outages, and that can contribute to cancellations. —Ayesha Ali, ABC News, 20 Dec. 2024

Travelers destined for Hawaii's Big Island this holiday season are running into a roadblock before even boarding the plane thanks to a shortage of rental cars on the island – and price gouging of what remains. —Kait Hanson, Travel + Leisure, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing shortage

• no shortage of

Kids Definition

shortage

noun

short·​age ˈshȯrt-ij 

: a lack in the amount needed : deficit

a shortage of cash

a gasoline shortage