First Known Use: 1581
Dictionary
1deficient
adjective de·fi·cient \di-ˈfi-shənt\
: not having enough of something that is important or necessary
: not good enough : not as good as others
Full Definition of DEFICIENT
1
: lacking in some necessary quality or element <deficient in judgment>
2
: not up to a normal standard or complement : defective <deficient strength>
— de·fi·cient·ly adverb
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Origin of DEFICIENT
Latin deficient-, deficiens, present participle of deficere to be wanting — more at defect
Related to DEFICIENT
- Synonyms
- incomplete, fragmental, fragmentary, half, halfway, partial
Rhymes with DEFICIENT
2deficient
noun
Definition of DEFICIENT
: one that is deficient <a mental deficient>
First Known Use of DEFICIENT
1906
Rhymes with DEFICIENT
DEFICIENT Defined for Kids
deficient
adjective de·fi·cient \di-ˈfi-shənt\
Definition of DEFICIENT for Kids
: lacking something necessary for completeness or health <Her diet is deficient in proteins.>
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