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

Leach also would publicly call out his players and could get ornery when questioned about his team’s shortcomings. —Ralph D. Russo, New York Times, 2 June 2026

Data doesn’t show whole picture The data has its shortcomings. —Catherine Odom, Miami Herald, 2 June 2026

Supporters say the bill was designed to address shortcomings identified after the Evergreen shooting. —Jamie Leary, CBS News, 31 May 2026

That was before the IPO filing laid out an even bigger number, and well before Musk chimed in this week, effectively acknowledging that the prospectus has shortcomings. —Lora Kolodny, CNBC, 29 May 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