Dearth

Noun

Definition: A scarcity or lack of something; an inadequate supply.

Synonyms: Shortage, Lack, Insufficiency

Antonyms: Abundance, Surplus, Plenty

Examples:

There is a dearth of affordable housing in the city.
The drought resulted in a dearth of crops.

Mnemonics:

Think of dearth as "de" (lack) + "earth" (supply) - a lack of supply.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English from Old English "dēore", meaning "precious, costly" + "-th", forming nouns denoting quality or state.

Historical Usage:

The word dearth has been used in English since the 13th century, primarily meaning scarcity or shortage.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Stem the dearth"

Explanation:

To take measures to stop or reduce the scarcity or lack.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "dearth" with "death".

Explanation:

"Dearth" and "death" may sound similar, but their meanings are entirely different. "Dearth" refers to a shortage or lack, while "death" refers to the permanent end of life.