shortage

noun

short·​age ˈshȯr-tij 

: lack, deficit

Synonyms of shortage

• lack
• deficiency
• scarcity

Examples of shortage in a Sentence

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

Recent Examples on the Web

The ship has experienced intermittent food shortages, low supplies of hygiene items, and problems with the water system, sailors and family members told CNN. — Tim Lister, CNN Money, 15 Aug. 2026

Lawmakers and family members have raised concerns about supply shortages, inadequate food, broken plumbing and mental health issues — and earlier this month, a sailor went overboard and was recovered, the Navy told CBS News. — Frank Andrews, CBS News, 14 Aug. 2026

But even with a notable price dip, costs remain persistently high due to a domestic beef shortage. — Claire Malon, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026

Large areas of pasture have turned brown, forcing many farmers to use their winter feed reserves early and raising the risk of feed shortages later this year. — CNBC, 14 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing shortage

• no shortage of

Rhymes for shortage

• reportage

Kids Definition

shortage

noun

short·​age ˈshȯrt-ij 

: a lack in the amount needed : deficit

a shortage of cash

a gasoline shortage