Meaning & Definition of word "Dearth"

Dearth

/dɜrθ/

noun:

  • 1. A scarcity or lack of something.
    • Example: There was a dearth of evidence to support the claim.
  • 2. An insufficient quantity or supply.
    • Example: The dearth of resources made it difficult to complete the project.
  • 3. A scarcity of food, often leading to hunger.
    • Example: The region experienced a dearth of food during the drought.
  • 4. A significant shortage or absence of something valuable.
    • Example: The dearth of qualified candidates made it hard to fill the position.
  • 5. An inadequate supply, leading to challenges in meeting needs.
    • Example: The dearth of skilled workers is a major obstacle for the industry.

Etymology

Middle English: from Old English deore, meaning 'precious, costly', combined with 'dearth' from the Proto-Germanic *deura.

Common Phrases and Expressions

dearth of knowledge:

A significant lack of understanding or information.

dearth of options:

A situation where there are few alternatives available.

Related Words

scarcity:

The state of being in short supply; a situation in which something is not easy to find.

poverty:

The state of being extremely poor.

Slang Meanings of dearth

Meaning: A serious lack or shortage.

Example Sentence: There's a real dearth of good restaurants in this area.

Meaning: Not enough of something important.

Example Sentence: The project failed due to a dearth of funding.