1
as in absence
the fact or state of being absent
the lack of news about the fate of the soldiers was frustrating
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in shortage
a falling short of an essential or desirable amount or number
the lack of eligible candidates for the jury kept the trial from getting started
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in need
a state of being without something necessary, desirable, or useful
the lack of fresh water at the campsite definitely would be a problem
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of lack
The Athletic Nba Staff, New York Times, 1 May 2025
This lack of assessment is sometimes attributed to time limitations and the fact that caring for the caregiver falls outside the provider’s responsibilities.
—Rebecca T Brown, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 May 2025
Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025
And by most accounts, this year’s event, low on celebrity attendees, lacked its usual glitter.
—Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 29 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lack
Noun
There were other issues for the Lakers in this series, but their lack of size, athleticism and physicality loomed over this five-game loss.
—The Athletic Nba Staff, New York Times, 1 May 2025
This lack of assessment is sometimes attributed to time limitations and the fact that caring for the caregiver falls outside the provider’s responsibilities.
—Rebecca T Brown, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 May 2025
Verb
Game 5 was another reminder that something seems to be lacking in their approach to the biggest playoff games.
—Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025
And by most accounts, this year’s event, low on celebrity attendees, lacked its usual glitter.
—Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 29 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for lack
Recent Examples of Synonyms for lack
Noun
-
The Celtics are expected to be cautious with their veteran guard, and his absence could prompt adjustments to the starting lineup.—
Thomas G. Moukawsher,
MSNBC Newsweek,
25 Apr. 2025
-
Yet, beyond the almost comical disclosures, one of the least memorable lines was also the most enlightening — and highlights why, despite Howe being absent for a fortnight after contracting pneumonia, Tindall has been able to seamlessly step up and take charge of first-team matters in his absence.—
Chris Waugh,
New York Times,
25 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
Progress in solving California’s unquestioned housing shortage can often be measured by the number of permits issued for new construction or conversions of existing office towers.—
Thomas Elias,
Mercury News,
25 Apr. 2025
-
What these Deals Tell Us About Investor Demand The first quarter transactions in Brooklyn and Manhattan signal robust investor confidence in free market multifamily, driven by the appeal of assets with minimal regulatory constraints and the city's persistent housing shortage.—
Shimon Shkury,
Forbes.com,
25 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
However, these new drugs carry significant challenges, including high costs, the need for frequent brain scans to monitor serious side effects and the risk of swelling or bleeding in the brain.—
Allen Chang,
ABC News,
29 Apr. 2025
-
Late last year, the district launched an initiative that provides cash payments for 12 months to 251 students with a demonstrated financial need who are pursuing health careers.—
Rebecca Plevin,
Los Angeles Times,
28 Apr. 2025
Noun
-
However, there are differences in risk factors and potential vitamin deficiencies.—
Amber J. Tresca,
Verywell Health,
25 Apr. 2025
-
Sleep deficiency can increase the risk of chronic health conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.—
Lindsay Curtis,
Health,
24 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
That’s a lot of unspent money and begs the question: Is more tax needed from an industry that’s shrinking, not growing?—
Andrew DeAngelo,
Forbes.com,
1 May 2025
-
And the neglect of the property over the years begs the question if the city has any interest in helping the area maintain its flavor as gentrification becomes hypercharged.—
Raisa Habersham,
Miami Herald,
30 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
Healthcare providers consider your medical history and ask about symptoms.—
Mark Gurarie,
Health,
22 Apr. 2025
-
Three Manhattan federal prosecutors resigned on Tuesday after saying the Trump administration had asked them to admit wrongdoing in New York City Mayor Eric Adams’s corruption case as a condition of their return.—
Ross O'Keefe,
The Washington Examiner,
22 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
Sheinbaum remained vague on details, but insisted that her administration would seek to work with Trump.—
Stephania Taladrid,
New Yorker,
21 Apr. 2025
-
All of which leaves Francis, the spiritual leader of more than a billion Catholics, insisting on a welcoming and internationalist worldview that has gone out of style.—
Jason Horowitz,
Vogue,
21 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
Aides describe her administration as disciplined, exacting, and highly attuned to data.—
Stephania Taladrid,
New Yorker,
21 Apr. 2025
-
In a moment drawn from the video game’s controversial sequel, Abby exacts vengeance on Joel for killing her father in the Season 1 finale.—
Clayton Davis,
Variety,
21 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Lack.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/lack. Accessed 5 May. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share