deficit

[def-uh-sit, dih-fis-it] / ˈdɛf ə sɪt, dɪˈfɪs ɪt /

NOUN

shortage of something needed, required

Synonyms

STRONGEST

loss shortfall

STRONG

arrears defalcation default deficiency dues inadequacy insufficiency lack paucity scantiness shortcoming

WEAK

dead horse due bill in hock in the hole in the red insufficience red ink underage

Antonyms

STRONG

abundance adequacy advantage enough perfection plenty satisfaction success sufficiency

WEAK

excess superfluousness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The New York Knicks overcame a 14-point third-quarter deficit to snatch a 105-95 victory at the San Antonio Spurs in the opening game of the NBA Finals.

From BBC • Jun. 4, 2026

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu, currently working on the draft budget for 2027, has vowed to bring the deficit down to below three percent of GDP by 2029.

From Barron's • Jun. 3, 2026

Budgetary matters associated with unionization may also be a concern at USC, which laid off more than 1,000 workers and cut spending last year amid a greater than $200-million deficit.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 3, 2026

"That simple adjustment was enough to reverse anxiety-related and social deficit behaviors, which is remarkable," says Álvaro García, first author of the study.

From Science Daily • Jun. 3, 2026

From the bench, I watched our slight lead get chipped away and turn into a ten-point deficit.

From "Here to Stay" by Sara Farizan

Vocabulary lists containing deficit

Essential Academic Vocabulary for High School Students, List 2

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ACT Vocabulary List

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East Asia - Middle School

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