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Destitute: meaning, definitions and examples

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destitute

 

[ ˈdɛstɪtjuːt ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

Without the basic necessities of life; lacking food, shelter, and clothing.

Synonyms

deprived, impoverished, poor

Examples of usage

  • She saw destitute children begging on the streets.
  • The war left many families destitute and homeless.
Context #2 | Noun

person

A person without any money or resources.

Synonyms

beggar, homeless, pauper

Examples of usage

  • The charity provides help for the destitute in our community.
  • He was once a wealthy businessman but ended up a destitute after the economic crisis.

Translations

Translations of the word "destitute" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desamparado

🇮🇳 निर्धन

🇩🇪 mittellos

🇮🇩 miskin

🇺🇦 знедолений

🇵🇱 bez środków do życia

🇯🇵 貧しい

🇫🇷 démuni

🇪🇸 desamparado

🇹🇷 muhtaç

🇰🇷 가난한

🇸🇦 معدم

🇨🇿 nemajetný

🇸🇰 nemajetný

🇨🇳 贫困的

🇸🇮 brez sredstev

🇮🇸 fátækur

🇰🇿 кедей

🇬🇪 ღარიბი

🇦🇿 kasıb

🇲🇽 desamparado

Etymology

The word 'destitute' originated from the Latin word 'destitutus', which means 'abandoned' or 'deprived'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe those who are lacking basic necessities or resources. Over the years, 'destitute' has come to symbolize the plight of the poor and homeless, highlighting the importance of compassion and support for those in need.

See also: destitution.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,207 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.