noun / verb
lack
LAK/læk/
The state of being without something or not having enough of it.
The empty wrench slot reveals the lack of a tool needed for the repair.
Etymology
In Middle English, lack already meant absence or a shortage of something required. Its earlier origin is uncertain, with borrowing from Dutch only one possibility.
In context
built-in lack whenever we want something and this reminded me of the biblical saying the Lord is my shepherd I shall not want so you actually want for nothing
More examples
- The apartment lacks space for a dining table.
- We canceled the picnic for lack of interest.
- She has good ideas but lacks the confidence to share them.
Forms
lack · lacks · lacked · lacking
Similar words
- absence
- Emphasizes that something is missing entirely, rather than insufficient.
- shortage
- Emphasizes having less than is needed to meet demand.
- deficiency
- Often identifies an inadequate amount of a necessary substance or quality.