lacking

[ lak-ing ]

preposition

1. being without; not having; wanting; less:

   Lacking equipment, the laboratory couldn't undertake the research project.

adjective

1. wanting; deficient:

   He was found lacking in stamina.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lacking¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; lack + -ing ²

Example Sentences

According to the Journal, the panel would consist of ranking retired officers who were empowered to recommend removal of former peers deemed to be “lacking in requisite leadership qualities.”

From Los Angeles Times

The judge is equating immigrants lacking legal status with terrorists by likening them to “unlawful combatants.”

From Slate

The recall campaign against Thao accused her of lacking the “competency, judgment and ability to lead what was once a great American city.”

From Los Angeles Times

She’s someone I think I could get into for a while because she’s such an oddball but is seriously good at what she does, just her people skills are lacking.

From Los Angeles Times

Anolik is less charitable about Babitz’s subsequent work, which she considers to be attenuated and strained, lacking the buzzy exuberance of “Slow Days, Fast Company.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• flawed
• inadequate
• incomplete