dearth

noun

ˈdərth How to pronounce dearth (audio)
Definition of dearthnext
1
as in shortage
a falling short of an essential or desirable amount or number there was a dearth of usable firewood at the campsite

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2
as in lack
the fact or state of being absent the dearth of salesclerks at the shoe store annoyed us

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of dearth New media offers an alternative place for discovery A dearth of late-night spots particularly affects independent acts — the kind that could really benefit from the exposure, just like Future Islands. — Maria Sherman, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2026 Without Gilbert, the Hurricanes have a dearth of tight ends who have playing experience. — Adam Lichtenstein, Sun Sentinel, 5 Aug. 2026 There is a dearth of head-to-head trials for different types of magnesium for neuropsychiatric disorders. — Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 4 Aug. 2026 Some industries face a dearth of candidates due to skills shortages, while others have hundreds competing for a single vacancy. — David Morel, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for dearth
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dearth
  1. shortage
  2. lack
  3. absence
Noun
  • Ukraine's long-range drones have repeatedly hit facilities in Russia's vital oil industry, causing fuel shortages, and have also engaged in a campaign against Russia's largest online retailer Wildberries.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026
  • Wage growth hasn’t kept pace with inflation and the city faces its most severe housing shortage in a generation.
    — Samantha Delouya, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
Definition of shortage
Noun
  • This lack of choice pushed some buyers toward used cars to better fit their budgets.
    — Beth Livesay, AJC.com, 21 Aug. 2026
  • Serbian hydrology expert Dejan Vladikovic said the current drought is the combination of a lack of winter snow and a very dry spring.
    — CBS News, CBS News, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of lack
Noun
  • For the Heat, the Thompson acquisition is part of an offseason whirlwind that comes in the wake of a fourth consecutive trip to the NBA’s play-in round and the Heat’s first playoff absence in seven seasons.
    — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 24 Aug. 2026
  • That was particularly evident as the club looked to replace franchise shortstop Dansby Swanson, whose absence has forced an infield shuffle and several changes to the big-league roster.
    — Peter Chawaga, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026
Definition of absence

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Cite this Entry

“Dearth.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dearth. Accessed 27 Aug. 2026.

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