shortage

[shawr-tij]

noun

1. a deficiency in quantity.

   a shortage of cash.

   Synonyms: lack, scarcity, want

2. the amount of such deficiency.

shortage

/ ˈʃɔːtɪdʒ /

noun

1. a deficiency or lack in the amount needed, expected, or due; deficit

Other Word Forms

• preshortage noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of shortage¹

First recorded in 1865–70; short + -age

Example Sentences

“Tell him there’s a nursing shortage and we need him to fix the health care system.”

From Salon

"We are restricting asylum, we're keeping borders closed, but we also need to find labour migrants to fill shortages and help our national economy."

From BBC

Considering there has been an ongoing officials shortage, Vargas’ willingness to keep working while helping train the next generation of officials makes him a valuable commodity.

From Los Angeles Times

The hope is that this could help address the city’s persistent housing shortage.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s clear staffing shortages are directly impacting park operations across the system,” the nonprofit National Parks Conservation Assn. said in a statement Wednesday.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• dearth 
• deficit 
• failure 
• lack 
• poverty 
• scarcity 
• shortfall 
• weakness