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understrength

American  
[uhn-der-strengkth, -strength, -strenth] / ˌʌn dərˈstrɛŋkθ, -ˈstrɛŋθ, -ˈstrɛnθ /

adjective

  1. having insufficient organizational strength; lacking in personnel.

    an understrength army.

  2. insufficient in power or efficacy.


Etymology

Origin of understrength

First recorded in 1920–25; under- + strength


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.

See Examples For:

Huw Jones scored two tries as the error-ridden British and Irish Lions stumbled to an unconvincing victory against an understrength Waratahs side in Sydney.

From BBC ● Jul. 5, 2025

An understrength Sharks side, who left Pollard's Springboks team-mates Siya Kolisi and Eben Etzebeth at home in Durban, replied through Manu Tshituka but failed to threaten much more as the hosts took control.

From BBC ● Dec. 13, 2024

The dominant performance against an understrength Palace followed Saturday’s narrow victory at Burnley and will give United fans hope the team has turned its form around.

From Washington Times ● Sep. 26, 2023

Besides design understrength, investigators reported signs of corrosion, misplaced reinforcement and the placement of heavier and additional plant containers on the deck than those in the original plans.

From Seattle Times ● Jun. 15, 2023

After his understrength team’s amazing comeback at Paris Saint-Germain from a 2-0 first-leg loss, who would bet against them?

From Seattle Times ● Mar. 14, 2019

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