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.

After being broken in their opening service game and slipping to a 3-1 deficit, Dart and Burrage roared back with a run of five games to take the first set.

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

The US budget deficit remained virtually stable during the first three months of 2026, as increased revenue -- primarily from income taxes and customs duties -- offset an acceleration in spending.

From Barron's • Apr. 10, 2026

There’s always profit-taking or the federal deficit or something or other to account for a bearish turn, and improved corporate earnings or interest rates or whatever to account for a bullish one.

From "Innumeracy: Mathematical Illiteracy and Its Consequences" by John Allen Paulos

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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