Definitions

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.

Pep Guardiola's side, looking to claw back the deficit, can increase the pressure when they host the leaders in a monumental fixture at Etihad Stadium on Sunday, 19 April.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

Los Osos 4, JSerra 3: A four-run seventh helped Los Osos overcome a 3-0 deficit.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 11, 2026

If Manchester City beat Chelsea on Sunday they will cut the gap to six points, and will trim the deficit further if they are able to beat the Gunners next Sunday.

From BBC • Apr. 11, 2026

Over the first six months of this staggered fiscal year, the deficit fell by 11 percent, or $139 billion, thanks to the increase in revenue that occurred between October and December due to customs duties.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

The three outs come quick—which is great for us because the deficit we need to overcome doesn’t increase.

From "Fast Pitch" by Nic Stone

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

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!