What does the term dearth signify?

The term "dearth" signifies a shortage or scarcity of something. It is used to describe situations in which there is a lack of a particular item or resource, particularly in contexts such as food supply or other essential goods. The connotation of "dearth" implies a significant and troubling insufficiency, highlighting the impact that such a shortage can have on availability and access. The other options relate to excess or abundance, which reflect the opposite of what "dearth" represents. By choosing the term that aligns with the concept of a shortage, you are accurately capturing the intended meaning of the word.