insufficiency

noun in·suf·fi·cien·cy \ˌin(t)-sə-ˈfi-shən(t)-sē\

plural in·suf·fi·cien·cies

Definition of INSUFFICIENCY

: the quality or state of being insufficient: as

a : lack of mental or moral fitness : incompetence <the insufficiency of this person for public office>

b : lack of adequate supply <insufficiency of provisions>

c : lack of physical power or capacity; especially : inability of an organ or body part to function normally <renal insufficiency>

: something that is insufficient or falls short of expectations

See insufficiency defined for kids

First Known Use of INSUFFICIENCY

1526

Related to INSUFFICIENCY

Synonyms: crunch, dearth, deficit, drought (also drouth), failure, famine, inadequacy, inadequateness, deficiency, lack, lacuna, paucity, pinch, poverty, scantiness, scarceness, scarcity, shortage, undersupply, want

Antonyms: abundance, adequacy, amplitude, opulence, plenitude, plenty, sufficiency, wealth

Medical Dictionary

insufficiency

noun in·suf·fi·cien·cy \ˌin(t)-sə-ˈfish-ən-sē\

plural in·suf·fi·cien·cies

Medical Definition of INSUFFICIENCY

: the quality or state of not being sufficient: as a : lack of adequate supply of something <an insufficiency of vitamins> b : lack of physical power or capacity; especially : inability of an organ or bodily part to function normally <renal insufficiency> <pulmonary insufficiency>—compare aortic regurgitation

—in·suf·fi·cient \-ənt\ adjective