plural deficiencies
1
: a lack of something that is needed : the state of not having enough of something necessary
The disease may be caused by nutritional deficiencies.
The book's major deficiency is its poor plot.
a deficiency of vitamin C
vitamin deficiency
2
: a problem in the way something is made or formed
There are several deficiencies in his plan.
The accident was caused by deficiencies in the engine.
Cite this Entry
“Deficiency.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/deficiency. Accessed 22 Jun. 2026.
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