shortcoming

noun

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

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.
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.
International Co-Production Given the shortcomings of local support structures, indie Dutch producers – like those in most European countries – regularly turn to international co-production to facilitate local ambition and talent. Jamie Lang, Variety, 1 Feb. 2025 That was the central shift, and despite its shortcomings, its significance should never be underestimated. Scott Spillman, The New Yorker, 29 Jan. 2025 Loading your audio article SAN JOSE — The San Francisco Giants’ previous offseasons were defined by their shortcomings. Justice Delos Santos, The Mercury News, 26 Jan. 2025 Some of the shortcomings Hynes pointed to included a lack of energy, a lack of competitiveness and a lack of execution. Dane Mizutani, Twin Cities, 24 Jan. 2025 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

Dictionary Entries Near shortcoming

Cite this Entry

“Shortcoming.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shortcoming. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

shortcoming

noun
short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ How to pronounce shortcoming (audio)
(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-

More from Merriam-Webster on shortcoming

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