Synonyms

lacking

American

[lak-ing] / ˈlæk ɪŋ /

preposition

being without; not having; wanting; less.

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

adjective

wanting; deficient.

He was found lacking in stamina.

Etymology

Origin of lacking

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

What was lacking was much of an Olympic fever, at least in Milan, where most people avoided the high ticket prices and watched the competition on television.

From Los Angeles Times

Somaliland officials have said their soil is rich in lithium, coltan and other sought-after resources, though independent studies are lacking.

From Barron's

Scotland showed the composure they had been lacking in the first half with a 27-phase move finished by Russell.

From BBC

With key personnel injured and players lacking form, Farrell's team has a new look this championship.

From BBC

Their 2026 car has been a disappointment so far, overweight by a significant margin - said to be anywhere between 25 and 40 kilos - and lacking downforce.

From BBC

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023