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

Jacob Bethell is set to become the youngest man to captain England in international cricket when the 21-year-old leads an understrength T20 side on a tour of Ireland in September.

From BBC

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

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

Wigan Warriors secured the League Leaders' Shield for the second consecutive season by scoring 11 tries in a dominant win against an understrength Salford Red Devils.

From BBC

A report on structural failures at Belfast's Victoria Square claims that a column was "constructed using concrete that was understrength by some 75%".

From BBC