shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkə-miŋ How to pronounce shortcoming (audio)
ˌshȯrt-ˈkə-
: an imperfection or lack that detracts from the whole
also : the quality or state of being flawed or lacking

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
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.
Transit administrators acknowledged shortcomings with the Metro Express rollout and said the red-light issue is high on the list of glitches that need to be fixed. Douglas Hanks, Miami Herald, 27 Oct. 2025 According to New York Post MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Mets are unlikely to take Alonso back again this time around, largely due to his defensive shortcomings. Jon Vankin, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025 Hurzeler was right not to blame referee Anthony Taylor for his team’s shortcomings. Andy Naylor, New York Times, 26 Oct. 2025 Halloween’s history, from tricks to treats Halloween is rooted in the ancient Celtic ritual of Samhain, marking the harvest and coming winter – and few know the shortcomings of the cold more than Minnesotans. Chris Kenning, USA Today, 24 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shortcoming

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shortcoming was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shortcoming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shortcoming. Accessed 29 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

shortcoming

noun
short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ How to pronounce shortcoming (audio)
(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-

More from Merriam-Webster on shortcoming

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!