Paucity (noun)

1. The state of being scarce or inadequate.
2. The presence of very few of something.

Origin:

From latin paucitas, from paucus, meaning 'few, little'.

Examples:

1. There was a paucity of volunteers for the event.
2. The young country had a paucity of resources and was dependent on foreign aid.
3. Despite the paucity of evidence, the jury found the defendant guilty.
4. The paucity of affordable housing is a major concern for many cities.
5. Her research on the topic revealed a paucity of information available.