shortage

Word parts

short + -age

Pronunciation

• IPA ^(key): /ˈʃɔː(r)tɪdʒ/

• Audio (UK)

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Noun

Singular shortage

Plural shortages

1. (countable & uncountable) A shortage is when there is too little of something.
   • Synonyms: deficit and shortfall
   • Antonyms: surplus, surplusage and nimiety

   There has been a shortage of food because of the drought.

   The company had a shortage of qualified candidates for the job.