shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkə-miŋ 

ˌshȯrt-ˈkə-

: an imperfection or lack that detracts from the whole

also : the quality or state of being flawed or lacking

Synonyms

• weakness
• fault
• sin
• deficiency
• failing

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

If Woltemade is still adjusting to his team-mates and his team-mates are still adjusting to him, the statistics suggest their offensive shortcomings are more fundamental. —Chris Waugh, New York Times, 29 Sep. 2025

The Trojans have started unbeaten behind a well-rounded offense and solid defense that continues to deliver despite shortcomings in the secondary. —Haley Sawyer, Oc Register, 26 Sep. 2025

Advertisement The contrast was on display in the session’s opening moments, when Annalena Baerbock, the General Assembly’s president, urged delegates not to give in to despair about the institution’s shortcomings. —Nik Popli, Time, 23 Sep. 2025

The network isn’t without its shortcomings. —Paul Rogers, Boston Herald, 23 Sep. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for shortcoming

• becoming
• forthcoming
• homecoming
• incoming
• oncoming
• succumbing
• upcoming
• coming
• cumming
• drumming
• gumming
• humming

Kids Definition

shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ 

(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-

: fault entry 1 sense 1b