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Definition of shortcoming

shortcoming

/ˈʃɔːrtˌkʌm.ɪŋ/
short · com · ing
Plural:shortcomings
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shortcoming Lexical Profile

shortcoming Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A fault, flaw, or failure to meet a certain standard, typically in a person's character, a plan, or a system.

Example

"Despite the software's minor technical shortcomings, it remains the most reliable tool in our department."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

shortbread
shortcake
shortchange
shortcoming
shortcrust
shortcut
shorten

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the mid-17th century as a compound derived from the idiomatic verbal phrase 'to come short' (meaning to fail to reach a standard or goal), combining 'short' (from Old English 'sceort') and 'coming' (from Old English 'cuman').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Shortcoming. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/shortcoming
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