SHORTAGE Synonyms: 44 Similar and Opposite Words

shortage

noun

ˈshȯr-tij

Definition of shortage

as in lack

a falling short of an essential or desirable amount or number there was a troubling shortage of supplies for the troops overseas this year

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of shortage Summary Many companies face talent shortages, yet their own hiring practices often limit the available pool. — Sheila Callaham, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 The longer the current situation continues, the greater the strain on an economy already struggling with shortages, inflation and restrictions on trade. — Hamidreza Azizi, Time, 29 Aug. 2026 Apple is still contending with issues like rising component costs due to the ongoing memory supply shortage, which has led to major price hikes across almost all of its products. — Will McCurdy, PC Magazine, 29 Aug. 2026 Those statistics are compelling, and so are signs that the current doctor shortage is a nationwide crisis. — Marj Halperin, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shortage

Recent Examples of Synonyms for shortage

Noun

Because of a lack of variety in Halal restaurants, neither of the men had tried barbecue besides brisket before their trip.

— Maven Navarro, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Aug. 2026
Fast growth and lack of warnings compound disaster Steiner said about 10% of Nepal’s power production was located in the valley affected by the latest disaster.

— Sibi Arasu, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of lack

Noun

Therefore, analysts note that if extreme weather worsens water and power scarcity, the impact could ripple through the entire semiconductor supply chain.

— , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026
Three of the Florida Keys’ most famous luxury resorts have changed hands in just three months, drawing nearly half a billion dollars from investors betting on a market defined by scarcity.

— Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of scarcity

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short

shortage

shortages

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“Shortage.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shortage. Accessed 2 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of shortage

noun

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