as in shortage
a falling short of an essential or desirable amount or number
the scarcity of good restaurants around here is surprising
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Recent Examples of scarcity
Unfortunately, these regions have notable environmental issues, including water scarcity.
—
Devika Rao, TheWeek, 5 Jan. 2026
Speaking on the People by WTF podcast, the Tesla and SpaceX CEO argued that AI and robotics will eliminate scarcity altogether, paving the way for a redefining of wealth.
—Preston Fore, Fortune, 2 Jan. 2026
Citing a 45% increase in the unhoused population in the state, a scarcity of resources and an affordable housing crisis, the homeless response system is buckling under the strain, advocates for the homeless say.
—Livi Stanford, Hartford Courant, 2 Jan. 2026
Competition and scarcity can breed innovation in science.
—Katherine J. Wu, The Atlantic, 30 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for scarcity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for scarcity
Noun
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Wagner said the shortages of equipment and staff will have a lasting impact on rebuilding in his community.—
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Sale speculation has surrounded Puma since last September, and there’s been no shortage on who could be buyers for the German sportswear brand.—
Noun
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Dead drummer Mickey Hart said at one point legendary concert promoter Bill Graham vented to him about the lack of catchy songs.—
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The first indicator is oftentimes a lack of water flow from faucets when the weather is extremely cold.—
Cite this Entry
“Scarcity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/scarcity. Accessed 13 Jan. 2026.
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