plural deficits
1
: an amount (such as an amount of money) that is less than the amount that is needed
The government is facing a deficit of $3 billion.
We will reduce the federal budget deficit.
Some economists advocate deficit spending [=spending borrowed money] to boost a slumping economy.
2
: the amount by which a person or team is behind in a game or contest
The team overcame a four-point deficit to win the game.
3
chiefly US
: a problem that causes a decrease in some ability
She has a slight hearing deficit in her left ear.
Cite this Entry
“Deficit.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/deficit. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.
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