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.
Meanwhile, Californians feel the effects of the shortage of at least 3 million homes in their pocketbooks. Laura Friedman, Oc Register, 7 July 2025 Raising a dam also raises the risk of downstream water shortages, ecological disruption, and international tension. Joe Salas july 06, New Atlas, 6 July 2025 These impacts have been felt profoundly with more destructive fires, intense water shortages and flooding in California as well as in many other parts of the world. Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2025 Ongoing Staffing Challenges The NWS has acknowledged ongoing staffing shortages stemming from federal layoffs and early retirements instituted by DOGE. Peter Aitken, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 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 11 Jul. 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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