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

"Each gene was like a single word. However, there was a piece of critical information lacking: transcription initiation sites for individual genes."

From Science Daily

He conceded that “the evidence in this case is very good that Laken Riley was murdered", but he said proof connecting his client to Ms Riley's death was "lacking”.

From BBC

With an upper hand over other bacteria lacking similar antibiotic resistance, such bacteria should become dominant.

From Science Daily

Aristotle believed that animals and humans share similar emotions while Descartes argued that animals were more like machines, lacking the capacity for emotions or consciousness.

From Science Daily

Cells have a waste disposal system to clear out defective molecules, and this protective mechanism was activated in cells lacking USP39.

From Science Daily

Related Words

• flawed
• inadequate
• incomplete