Dearth
Scarcity; a lack of something that is needed or desired.
nounDearth
Scarcity; a lack of something that is needed or desired.
nounImagine This
Scientists have found a new planet that is very similar to Earth, except it lacks oxygen. Without oxygen, nothing can live. They call it D-Earth, meaning Dead Earth.
Sounds Like
sounds like 'earth' with a leading d (pronounced /dɜːrθ/)
Looks Like
D-Earth (Dead Earth)
Remember This
Usage tip: Use 'a dearth of' to describe a shortage of something specific (e.g., a dearth of evidence). The word contrasts with abundance.
Other Forms
Connect With
scarcity, paucity, shortage, insufficiency, want
Note
Be careful not to confuse with 'death'. Dearth refers to scarcity, not mortality.
Study Deeper
- There is a dearth of fresh water in the region after the drought.
- The project encountered a dearth of skilled workers, slowing development.
From Old English dearth, meaning scarcity; the exact Proto-Germanic roots are uncertain.
Mnemonic: D-EARTH = Dead Earth; picture a planet that is literally devoid of life to remember scarcity.
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Exalt
verbTo praise highly; to elevate in status or honor.
Abolish
verbTo formally end or repeal a system, practice, or institution; to officially put an end to something established.
Discriminate
verbTo recognize or identify differences between things; to distinguish. In a negative sense, to treat someone unfavorably because of prejudice or bias.
Similar Words
Related words and words with the same part of speech.
Paucity
nounA smallness in number or amount; scarcity.
Abasement
nounThe act or instance of humiliating or degrading someone; the state of being lowered in dignity or status.
Absurdity
nounThe quality or state of being wildly unreasonable, illogical, or ridiculous; something that is completely contrary to reason or common sense.
Accent
nounA distinctive way of pronouncing words; the act of emphasizing a syllable or word (as a verb, to accent means to emphasize).
Accolade
nounAn honor; a public expression of praise or an award.
Acrimony
nounBitterness of speech or manner; ill feeling