deficit
/ˈdɛfɪsɪt/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: deficits
Sense 1
Meaning · English
Deficiency in amount or quality; a falling short; lack.
Noun
Examples
The crop output this year has been comparatively small, owing to the deficit in rainfall.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
A situation wherein, or amount whereby, spending exceeds (e.g. government) revenue.
Noun
Examples
Dr. Beeching's obvious intent is that if Scottish—and similarly unprofitable English and Welsh—railways are to be maintained, it must be done by an unconcealed subsidy; he is determined that the railways shall no longer be preoccupied with—and derided for—immense deficits which include the burden of
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “deficit” mean?
Deficiency in amount or quality; a falling short; lack.
Is “deficit” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.