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Destitute Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’”
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destitute

[หˆdษ›stษชtjuหt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling

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

Synonyms

deprived, impoverished, poor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
destitute

Use 'destitute' when referring to someone who lacks the basic necessities of life, like food, shelter, and clothing. It often conveys a severe level of poverty.

  • The homeless man was destitute, having lost everything in the economic collapse.
  • After the natural disaster, entire villages were left destitute and in need of urgent aid.
poor

'Poor' is a general term for lacking financial resources. It can range from mild to severe economic hardship and is often used in everyday language.

  • Growing up, she was poor and had to work multiple jobs to make ends meet.
  • The government has introduced new policies to support poor families in rural areas.
impoverished

The word 'impoverished' is suitable for describing someone or something that has been made poor, often as a result of economic conditions. It can refer to individuals, communities, or countries.

  • The once-thriving region became impoverished due to prolonged drought and mismanagement.
  • Impoverished families often struggle to afford basic healthcare and education for their children.
deprived

The term 'deprived' is used to describe a lack of specific privileges, opportunities, or basic necessities, often in a relative sense. It can also refer to being denied something essential.

  • The young boy grew up in a deprived neighborhood with few educational resources.
  • The family felt deprived of their rights when their land was taken away by the government.

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.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
destitute

Used to describe someone who is extremely poor and lacks the basic necessities of life. Itโ€™s suitable for formal and empathetic contexts.

  • After losing his job and home, he found himself destitute and struggling to survive.
  • The charity focuses on helping destitute families get back on their feet.
pauper

An old-fashioned term for a very poor person, often found in historical or literary contexts. It can carry a somewhat negative or pitiful connotation.

  • In the 19th century, many paupers were forced to live in workhouses.
  • The novel tells the story of a pauper who rises to wealth and prosperity.
beggar

Refers to someone who asks others for money or food on the streets. This term can sometimes carry a negative connotation.

  • The man was approached by a beggar asking for spare change.
  • In the city, beggars can often be seen near popular tourist spots.
homeless

Describes someone who does not have a permanent place to live. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, often without the negative connotations associated with โ€˜beggarโ€™ or โ€˜pauperโ€™.

  • The organization provides shelters for homeless individuals during the winter months.
  • She became homeless after her apartment building was condemned.

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

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • In medieval Europe, destitution often led to townspeople establishing poorhouses to care for those in need.
  • The Great Depression in the 1930s saw a significant increase in destitution, prompting government action in welfare.

Literature

  • In Charles Dickens' works, characters often portray destitution, showcasing the social issues of 19th-century England.
  • The concept features in many classic novels, illustrating the struggle against poverty and the resilience of the human spirit.

Psychology

  • Experiencing destitution can lead to severe mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety.
  • People living in poverty may often feel a loss of dignity and purpose, influencing their overall well-being.

Social Issues

  • Destitution remains a pressing global issue, with millions lacking basic needs like food and shelter.
  • Many organizations work to alleviate destitution through poverty relief programs and education initiatives.

Origin of 'destitute'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Latin 'destitutus', meaning 'abandoned' or 'forsaken'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 15th century with a similar meaning of being bereft or lacking.
  • The prefix 'de-' generally indicates removal or reversal, while 'stitutus' refers to a standing or position.

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.