shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkə-miŋ 

ˌshȯrt-ˈkə-

: an imperfection or lack that detracts from the whole

also : the quality or state of being flawed or lacking

Synonyms of shortcoming

• weakness
• fault
• sin
• deficiency
• failing

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

Subsequent investigation into his death revealed a series of workplace safety shortcomings. — William J. Ford, Baltimore Sun, 8 Oct. 2026

The Yankees are now 27-30 in the playoffs under Boone, with this year’s shortcoming extending the franchise’s championship drought to 17 years. — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 8 Oct. 2026

The company has also pushed back against California laws seeking to increase oversight of its facilities and inform the public about health and safety shortcomings. — Andrea Castillo, Los Angeles Times, 8 Oct. 2026

The recent crop of papers also raises a question about how to best study the shortcomings of pulse oximeters. — Anil Oza, STAT, 6 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for shortcoming

• becoming
• forthcoming
• homecoming
• incoming
• oncoming
• succumbing
• upcoming
• coming
• cumming
• drumming
• gumming
• humming

Kids Definition

shortcoming

noun

short·​com·​ing ˈshȯrt-ˌkəm-iŋ 

(ˈ)shȯrt-ˈkəm-

: fault entry 1 sense 1b