lacking

[lak-ing]

preposition

1. being without; not having; wanting; less.

   Lacking equipment, the laboratory couldn't undertake the research project.

adjective

1. wanting; deficient.

   He was found lacking in stamina.

Word History and Origins

Origin of lacking¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English; lack + -ing ²

Example Sentences

They welcome Labour's commitment to building 180,000 homes for social rent over the next decade, but they say consistent multi-year funding to tackle the issue is so far lacking.

From BBC

By contrast, details from the U.S. government have been lacking, the family said.

From Los Angeles Times

"Our talent pipeline is world-renowned. And, whilst talent is everywhere, all too often opportunity is lacking," he said in his message, adding that there were more than 50 bursary recipients in Wales.

From BBC

They grumble, especially those elected for the first time last year, about a leader's office lacking in direction, fight, even a willingness to acknowledge their existence.

From BBC

You couldn't accuse Manchester United's fans of lacking a sense of humour.

From BBC

Related Words

• flawed 
• inadequate 
• incomplete