shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkə-miŋ How to pronounce shortcoming (audio)
ˌshȯrt-ˈkə-
: an imperfection or lack that detracts from the whole
also : the quality or state of being flawed or lacking

Examples of shortcoming in a Sentence

Her lack of attention to detail is her biggest shortcoming. The main shortcoming of this camera is that it uses up batteries quickly.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This is a remarkable shortcoming for any intelligent system to have. Rob Toews, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025 Meanwhile, the Aztecs were struggling on the offensive end to go along with their defensive shortcomings, shooting just 26.7% in the first half, and going just 4-of-16 from beyond the arc. Scott Thompson, Fox News, 19 Mar. 2025 Despite its shortcomings, Somali Community Link has continued to pull in funding from state and local governments. Robert Schmad, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 19 Mar. 2025 Nor can Europe simply try to substitute homegrown capabilities for U.S. ones where there are obvious shortcomings. Michael E. O’Hanlon, Foreign Affairs, 18 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shortcoming

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shortcoming was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Shortcoming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shortcoming. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

shortcoming

noun
short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ How to pronounce shortcoming (audio)
(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-

More from Merriam-Webster on shortcoming

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