What is the difference between shortage and dearth?

A shortage refers to a situation where the demand for a product or service exceeds its supply, often leading to unfulfilled demand. In contrast, dearth signifies a scarcity or lack of something, particularly essential resources or commodities, that may not necessarily be tied to demand. While a shortage can be temporary and market-driven, a dearth implies a more persistent and potentially critical absence. Both terms indicate a deficiency, but they differ in context and implications.