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 of shortcoming

• 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

In all these books, animals serve as mirrors, reflecting our personal and societal shortcomings and shame, our hubris, anxiety, and moral failings. —Literary Hub, 9 June 2026

The North Korean players’ physical aptitude was clear, but coaches were aware of their technical and tactical shortcomings. —Andrew McNicol, CNN Money, 7 June 2026

The Knicks escaped with a 105-104 win over the Spurs in Game 2 of the NBA Finals on Friday, an outcome that once again revealed the Knicks’ resiliency and Wembanyama’s shortcomings. —Mark Medina, Forbes.com, 6 June 2026

More surprising than the shortcomings themselves is how rarely they are openly acknowledged or questioned by either patients or providers. —Nisha Narayanan, STAT, 5 June 2026

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