Lack

Definition

Lack can function as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to the absence or deficiency of something needed or desired. As a verb, it means to be without or deficient in something necessary or required.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /læk/
• Respelling: LAK

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /læk/
• Respelling: LAK

Etymology

The word "lack" originates from Middle English "lak" or "laken," meaning "failure, fault, or deficiency," which derives from Old Norse "laka," meaning "to diminish" or "decrease." It entered English usage in the late 14th century.

Derivatives

• Lacking (adjective)
• Lackluster (adjective)
• Unlacking (adjective)
• Lackadaisical (adjective)
• Lackey (noun, unrelated but etymologically linked)

Synonyms

• Absence
• Deficiency
• Scarcity

Antonyms

• Abundance
• Presence
• Sufficiency

Usage

The word "lack" is commonly used in contexts where there is an absence or insufficiency of something. For example, "There is a lack of resources in the region." As a verb, it is often used to describe the state of being without something essential, e.g., "He lacks the qualifications for the job."

Related Terms

• Deficiency: A state of lacking or not having enough.
• Shortage: An insufficient quantity of something.
• Absence: The nonexistence or lack of something.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The state of being without something needed or desired: Refers to an absence or insufficiency.
  • Example: "The team's failure was due to a lack of preparation."
• An insufficiency of quantity or quality: Indicates that there is not enough of something.
  • Example: "A lack of funding has delayed the project."

Verb

• To be without something necessary or desirable: Describes the condition of not having something.
  • Example: "She lacks confidence in public speaking."
• To experience deficiency in quantity or quality: Indicates a shortfall or absence in resources or attributes.
  • Example: "The document lacks important details."