understaffed

adjective

un·​der·​staffed ˌən-dər-ˈstaft How to pronounce understaffed (audio)
: inadequately staffed
understaffing
ˌən-dər-ˈsta-fiŋ How to pronounce understaffed (audio)
noun

Examples of understaffed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Sorrells has been unwilling to seek adequate budget funding from the Commissioners Court, leaving the office understaffed, according to one of the sources. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Oct. 2026 But the group that helps manage education on the Pentagon's guidelines, the Department of the Responsible AI Division, is understaffed. — Chiara Eisner, NPR, 23 Oct. 2026 Protests by high school students angry about dilapidated, understaffed schools have roiled France since mid-September. — John Leicester, Arkansas Online, 15 Oct. 2026 Many candidates are now in training for the Secret Service, which has been dangerously understaffed for years. — Norah O'Donnell, CBS News, 11 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for understaffed

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of understaffed was in 1891

Rhymes for understaffed

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Browse Nearby Words

undersquare
understaffed
understand
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Cite this Entry

“Understaffed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understaffed. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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