deficiency — a lack or shortage of something necessary or desirable
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a lack or shortage of something necessary or desirable
Pronunciation (IPA): /dɪˈfɪʃənsi/
Example Sentences
- My wallet shows a serious deficiency of cash after shopping.
- The student's test revealed a deficiency in mathematics.
- My cooking skills have a major deficiency in the 'not burning food' department.
deficiency
NOUN[/dɪˈfɪʃənsi/]
a lack or shortage of something necessary or desirable
A vitamin D deficiency weakened her bones over time.
Iron deficiency made the runner feel exhausted. (➖ Lack + ⚠️ Need → Deficiency)
Overcoming a vitamin deficiency improved her efficiency and led to athletic proficiency.
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'deficientia', derived from 'deficere' meaning 'to fail or be lacking', composed of the prefix 'de-' (away from) and 'facere' (to do or make).
Breakdown
de- (away from) + -fic- (make, do from Latin facere) + -ency (state or quality of being) = deficiency
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My wallet shows a serious deficiency of cash after shopping.”
“The student's test revealed a deficiency in mathematics.”
“My cooking skills have a major deficiency in the 'not burning food' department.”
“The company needs to address the deficiency in customer service.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
Want to master 19,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.