1
general::
Phrase(s): in short supply
Fig. scarce. • Fresh vegetables are in short supply in the winter. • Yellow cars are in short supply because everyone likes them and buys them. • At this time of the year, fresh vegetables go into short supply.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
Less than is needed, lacking. For example, Skilled operators were in short supply, or The hotels are all full, and beds are in short supply. [First half of 1900s]
American Heritage Idioms