Which word means lacking in amount or quality?

The word "meager" is fittingly chosen because it directly conveys the idea of something being insufficient or inadequate in quantity or quality. This term often describes a situation where resources, provisions, or characteristics are sparse or not enough to meet a need or standard. For instance, one might refer to meager earnings, which suggests that the income is not substantial enough for a comfortable lifestyle.

In contrast, the other options present a range of meanings that oppose the concept of scarcity. "Ample" signifies an abundance or plenty, suggesting that there is more than enough. "Copious" also denotes a large quantity, often in reference to something that is overflowing or plentiful. "Excessive" indicates that there is too much of something, moving further away from the notion of lacking. Thus, "meager" stands out as the term that encapsulates the essence of deficiency in both amount and quality.