1. the provision of insufficient financial resources for something

Examples

• The school district’s underfunding has led to overcrowded classrooms.
• Chronic underfunding of public transportation affects service quality.
• The hospital blamed staff shortages on years of underfunding.
• Underfunding of research programs has slowed scientific progress.
• The mayor addressed the underfunding of city parks and recreation.
• Many nonprofits struggle with underfunding despite their important work.