deficit

American  

[def-uh-sit, dih-fis-it] / ˈdɛf ə sɪt, dɪˈfɪs ɪt /

noun

1. the amount by which a sum of money falls short of the required amount.

2. the amount by which expenditures or liabilities exceed income or assets.

3. a lack or shortage; deficiency.

4. a disadvantage, impairment, or handicap.

   The team's major deficit is its poor pitching.

5. a loss, as in the operation of a business.

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deficit British  

/ ˈdɛfɪsɪt, dɪˈfɪsɪt /

noun

1. the amount by which an actual sum is lower than that expected or required

2. 1. an excess of liabilities over assets

   2. an excess of expenditures over revenues during a certain period

   3. an excess of payments over receipts on the balance of payments

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deficit Cultural  

1. A shortage, especially the amount by which a sum of money falls short of what is required; a debt.

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Other Word Forms

• superdeficit noun

Etymology

Origin of deficit

First recorded in 1775–85; from Latin dēficit “(it) lacks,” 3rd-person singular present of dēficere “to fail, run short, lack, weaken”; deficient

Example Sentences

“We expect 2026 to be defined by elevated T-bill issuance and steady coupon supply, driven by persistent large deficits and volatile tariff revenues,” the strategists say.

From The Wall Street Journal

“A significant number of affordable housing buildings in New York City are experiencing operating deficits, where rents are not covering expenses,” the report says.

From The Wall Street Journal

The International Monetary Fund estimates that total U.K. government debt will hit 95% of gross domestic product this year, with a deficit of 4.3%.

From The Wall Street Journal

Leo Barre scored two tries as Stade hit back from a 17-3 deficit just before half-time to turn the game on its head.

From Barron's

Selling longer-dated Treasurys has been a decent bet, as deficit concerns have kept yields elevated despite uncertainty around longer-term economic growth.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• loss
• shortfall