shortage

noun

short·​age ˈshȯr-tij How to pronounce shortage (audio)

Examples of shortage in a Sentence

there was a troubling shortage of supplies for the troops overseas this year
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In recent years, Prairie Village has seen heated discussions and resident uproar over the city’s attempts to build a community center, address its affordable housing shortage and create the city budget. Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 9 Oct. 2025 Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson has taken responsibility for the jailbreak but also blamed a lack of resources, from faulty locks to staffing shortages, as well as the escapees' network of accomplices. Rachel Treisman, NPR, 9 Oct. 2025 Two thousand soldiers—many of whom arrived with families in tow—exacerbated the city’s housing shortage and drove up prices for food and firewood. Time, 9 Oct. 2025 The delays and air traffic controller shortages have also raised eyebrows about air travel safety. Sydney Lake, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shortage

Word History

First Known Use

1868, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shortage was in 1868

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shortage.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shortage. Accessed 14 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

shortage

noun
short·​age ˈshȯrt-ij How to pronounce shortage (audio)
: a lack in the amount needed : deficit
a shortage of cash
a gasoline shortage

More from Merriam-Webster on shortage

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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