Deprivation refers to the state of lacking something that is considered essential or necessary. Synonyms for deprivation are deficiency, shortage, dearth, shortfall, insufficiency, paucity, want, privation, destitution, and poverty. Deficiency refers to a shortage or inadequacy of something needed. A shortage denotes an insufficient quantity or amount of something available. Dearth means a scarcity of something that is vital or essential. Shortfall refers to the difference between something expected and what has actually been delivered. Insufficiency refers to a lack of necessary quality or quantity. Paucity signifies an extreme or severe shortage of something. Privation signifies a lack of basic necessities or comforts. Destitution refers to a state of being without any resources or means of subsistence. Poverty refers to a severe deficiency of resources such as food, shelter, and money.