A description of one found wanting (5)

I believe the answer is:

needy

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'wanting' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

(Other definitions for needy that I've seen before include "Hard up" , "Poor - destitute" , "lacking resources" , "badly craving affection" , "Poor; indigent" .)

I've seen this clue in The Irish News and The Globe and Mail.

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