lack (to not have something or not having enough of something): A lack of sleep dulled my thinking. They canceled the project due to a lack of funds.
absence (when something is not present or does not exist): The absence of noise created a peaceful atmosphere for studying in the library.
deficiency (a lack of what is needed): Pregnant women often experience iron deficiency.
scarcity (a situation in which something is not easy to find or obtain): There was a scarcity of water in the region due to the drought.
shortage (a situation in which there is not enough of something): There is a significant shortage of food in this area.
want (a lack of what is needed): The village was in want of essential healthcare services. Living in want was very stressful.