What does paucity refer to?

Paucity refers to a lack or a small amount of something. This term is often used to indicate that there is an insufficient quantity or scarcity of a particular item, resource, or quality. In various contexts, it reflects a deficiency, such as the paucity of food in certain regions or a paucity of evidence in research. The choice highlighting a lack or small amount accurately captures the essence of the term, emphasizing a state of scarcity rather than abundance or inconsistency.