price ceiling A government-imposed maximum price below market equilibrium that prevents the demand and supply sides of a market from interacting freely. Price ceilings create shortages. Related Related Articles: How Price “Gouging” Can Help UsPrice Ceilings: Cronut ShortagesIn West Virginia, Is Price Gouging a Problem or a Solution?Venezuela Has Cheap Gas But No CarsA Solution for Too Few Doctors: More Patience Ann Mills Share This Previous Articleopen corporation Next Articlerecession December 17, 2020