understaffed

adjective

un·​der·​staffed ˌən-dər-ˈstaft How to pronounce understaffed (audio)
: inadequately staffed
understaffing noun

Examples of understaffed in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The big picture: Municipal jails are chronically overcrowded and understaffed. Lucille Sherman, Axios, 7 Apr. 2025 Prior to recent cuts, it had been reported that NWS offices were already understaffed. Marshall Shepherd, Forbes.com, 5 Apr. 2025 The Bureau was already understaffed, in my opinion, so this will simply put a greater strain on remaining staff. William Lambers, Newsweek, 7 Mar. 2025 The cuts are a blow to the understaffed weather and environmental agency as climate change crises and severe natural disasters become more frequent. Alexandra Banner, CNN, 28 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for understaffed

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of understaffed was in 1891

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Cite this Entry

“Understaffed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/understaffed. Accessed 23 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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