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 an essay from 1927, the American composer Henry Cowell identified certain shortcomings of Western musical notation. —Olivia Giovetti, Harpers Magazine, 27 Jan. 2026

Painfully aware of his shortcomings, Wallace would have been horrified by his own subsequent beatification. —Hermione Hoby, New Yorker, 26 Jan. 2026

Hollyland says the Lyra directly addresses these shortcomings with three major technological breakthroughs that set a new benchmark for high-performance webcams at a sensible price point. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026

This shortcoming of craft from Gans feels predictable looking at his limited track record as a director. —Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 23 Jan. 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