understrength

[ uhn-der-strengkth, -strength, -strenth ]

adjective

1. having insufficient organizational strength; lacking in personnel:

   an understrength army.

2. insufficient in power or efficacy.

Word History and Origins

Origin of understrength¹

First recorded in 1920–25; under- + strength

Example Sentences

To integrate Negroes into white combat units, already dangerously understrength, would threaten the Army's fighting ability.

From Project Gutenberg