lack

[ lak ]

noun

1. an absence or inadequate amount of something needed, desirable, or customary:

   We had to severely limit our holiday gift shopping due to lack of funds.

   Lack of skill is the main reason he didn’t get the job.

   Synonyms: need, want, insufficiency, deficit, paucity, scarcity, dearth

   Antonyms: surplus

2. something missing or needed:

   After he left, they really felt the lack.

verb (used with object)

1. to be without or deficient in:

   She wants to become an actor, but unfortunately she lacks ability.

   Many of the villagers lacked even the basic necessities of life.

   Synonyms: need, want

2. to fall short of a target or requirement by (a particular amount):

   He lacks three votes to win.

verb (used without object)

1. to be absent or missing, as something needed or desirable:

   Three votes are lacking to make a majority.

verb phrase

1. to be short of or deficient in:

   What he lacks in brains, he makes up for in brawn.

lack

/ læk /

noun

1. an insufficiency, shortage, or absence of something required or desired
2. something that is required but is absent or in short supply

verb

1. whenintr, often foll by in or for to be deficient (in) or have need (of)

   to lack purpose

Word History and Origins

Origin of lack¹

First recorded in 1125–75; Middle English lak; cognate with Middle Low German lak, Middle Dutch lac “deficiency”; akin to Old Norse lakr “deficient”

Word History and Origins

Origin of lack¹

C12: related to Middle Dutch laken to be wanting

Example Sentences

Mr Bailey's speech will go on to address the wider UK economy and its lack of growth.

From BBC

The nomination has raised questions over Gabbard's lack of experience in intelligence as well as accusations that she has in the past amplified Russia propaganda.

From BBC

While it works to allow more housing — the lack of which economists say is the underlying cause of the affordability crisis — the city is taking steps to increase protections for departing tenants.

From Los Angeles Times

Southern California has a big stake in their success, or lack thereof, over the next four years.

From Los Angeles Times

Karen Middleton, head of policy at MMHA, says mums are being failed by the lack of consistent maternal mental health care.

From BBC

Related Words

• absence
• dearth
• inadequacy
• loss
• paucity
• poverty
• reduction
• scarcity
• shortage
• shortcoming
• shortfall