understaffed

adjective

un·​der·​staffed ˌən-dər-ˈstaft How to pronounce understaffed (audio)
: inadequately staffed
understaffing noun

Examples of understaffed in a Sentence

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.
Some of those courts are currently understaffed, resulting in heavy workloads for judges, creating delays in the administration of justice. Paul M. Collins Jr., The Conversation, 16 Jan. 2025 Also, why does Ukraine have fully prepared fire stations on the United States’ dime and our firefighters are understaffed? Jay Caspian Kang, The New Yorker, 16 Jan. 2025 Set at an underfunded, understaffed Oregon hospital, the mockumentary-style comedy follows the dedicated doctors and nurses who try their best to treat patients while maintaining their own sanity. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 14 Jan. 2025 Global cyberattack attempts increased by 104% in 2023, yet 59% of security leaders say their teams are understaffed. David Monnier, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for understaffed 

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of understaffed was in 1891

Dictionary Entries Near understaffed

Cite this Entry

“Understaffed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understaffed. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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