understaffed

adjective

un·​der·​staffed ˌən-dər-ˈstaft How to pronounce understaffed (audio)
: inadequately staffed
understaffing noun

Examples of understaffed in a Sentence

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.
The refuge was chronically understaffed before the Trump administration in February dismissed two of the eight employees tasked with managing five national wildlife refuges along Florida’s Gulf Coast, including Crystal River, according to the legal filing. Amy Green, Miami Herald, 27 June 2025 Crystal River has been chronically understaffed since its creation in 1983. Ragan Whitlock, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 June 2025 The patient’s family was awarded $1.29 million in arbitration this month after a judge found that the facility was severely understaffed at the time of her arrival and should not have admitted her. Corinne Purtill, Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2025 While so much of the broader AI conversation revolves around fears that AI will replace workers, the reality in healthcare is that many systems are understaffed, and AI can fill gaps. Fran Rosch, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for understaffed

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of understaffed was in 1891

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Cite this Entry

“Understaffed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understaffed. Accessed 8 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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