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Definition of shortfall

shortfall

/ˈʃɔːrtfɔːl/
short · fall
Plural:shortfalls
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shortfall Lexical Profile

shortfall Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A deficit of something required or expected, or the amount by which a sum of money, supply, or outcome falls short of a target.

Example

"The charity held an emergency fundraiser to cover a significant budget shortfall before the end of the fiscal year."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

shorten
shortener
shortening
shortfall
shortfin mako shark
shorthair
shorthaired

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century as a noun compound derived from the verbal phrase 'to fall short,' combining Old English 'sceort' (short) and 'feallan' (to fall).

Cite this Entry

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