shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkə-miŋ How to pronounce shortcoming (audio)
ˌshȯrt-ˈkə-
Synonyms of shortcoming
: an imperfection or lack that detracts from the whole
also : the quality or state of being flawed or lacking

Synonyms of shortcoming

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Examples of shortcoming in a Sentence

Her lack of attention to detail is her biggest shortcoming. The main shortcoming of this camera is that it uses up batteries quickly.
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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.
Lee said the Buildings Department, the Fire Services Department and the Labor Department had shortcomings in supervision over fire hazards of the apartment complex. — ABC News, 29 Oct. 2026 Not that those food safety shortcomings bothered rodents at The Blue Store aka Bargain Supermarket, 2901 NW 19th St. — David J. Neal, Miami Herald, 29 Oct. 2026 Nothing exposes the shortcomings of a yachting crew more clearly than a group of demanding guests. — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 27 Oct. 2026 But if the economic environment is unfavorable, or the infrastructure and support systems needed to sustain that new livelihood are absent, those shortcomings may explain the outcome as much as individual decisions do. — Charles Wratto, The Conversation, 27 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for shortcoming

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of shortcoming was in the 15th century

Rhymes for shortcoming

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Browse Nearby Words

shortcoat
shortcoming
short corner
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Cite this Entry

“Shortcoming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shortcoming. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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Kids Definition

shortcoming

noun
short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ How to pronounce shortcoming (audio)
(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-
: fault entry 1 sense 1b
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