# dearth

/ˈdɝθ/ (US) · /dˈɜːθ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/dearth
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a situation where there is very little of something, especially something that is needed or wanted. It is a more formal and older word than 'lack'.

For teachers: a state of being very scarce or lacking in supply. Often used in formal or literary contexts to describe a shortage of essential resources or qualities.

## Examples

- There is a dearth of fresh water in this region.
- The company is facing a severe dearth of skilled workers as the industry grows faster than the local workforce.
- The sudden dearth of raw materials forced the factory to halt production until the supply chain could be stabilized through international trade agreements.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.