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Famine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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famine

[ˈfæmɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

food shortage

Famine is a severe shortage of food, resulting in widespread hunger and death. It is often caused by factors such as crop failure, war, or government policies. Famine can have devastating effects on communities, leading to malnutrition, disease, and even mass migration.

Synonyms

food crisis, hungry, starvation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
famine

Famine is used to describe a severe shortage of food affecting a large area or population, often due to natural disasters or conflict.

  • The country faced a severe famine after years of drought.
  • International aid was sent to help the regions hit by famine.
starvation

Starvation indicates extreme suffering or death caused by lack of food. It is a dire and severe condition, sometimes with a negative connotation.

  • Many people died from starvation during the prolonged famine.
  • Starvation among the refugees became a critical issue.
food crisis

Food crisis refers to a situation where food is scarce, leading to increased prices and difficulty in obtaining sufficient food. It can be less severe than famine but still serious.

  • The economic downturn led to a food crisis in the city.
  • Efforts are being made to address the global food crisis.
hungry

Hungry is used to describe the feeling of needing or wanting food. It is a subjective and individual experience rather than a widespread issue.

  • I am feeling very hungry after a long day at work.
  • Children were often left hungry due to the poor economic conditions.

Examples of usage

  • During the famine, many people were forced to beg for food on the streets.
  • The government declared a state of emergency due to the widespread famine.
Context #2 | Noun

extreme hunger

Famine is characterized by extreme hunger and starvation, with people unable to access adequate food sources. This can lead to long-term health issues and a decline in overall well-being. Organizations such as the United Nations often provide aid to regions experiencing famine.

Synonyms

dearth, paucity, scarcity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
famine

Famine is used when talking about a severe shortage of food affecting a large population, often for an extended period. It usually has a very serious and distressing connotation.

  • The prolonged drought led to a famine that affected hundreds of thousands of people
  • The famine in the region resulted in widespread malnutrition and deaths
dearth

Dearth is used to describe a lack or shortage of something, not necessarily food, and often implies that this shortage is problematic or significant.

  • There is a dearth of affordable housing in the city
  • The dearth of medical supplies has become a critical issue
scarcity

Scarcity describes a situation where something is in short supply and difficult to obtain. It can apply to various contexts, including resources, commodities, or opportunities.

  • The scarcity of water in the desert poses a serious challenge for inhabitants
  • The scarcity of job opportunities in the region has led to high unemployment rates
paucity

Paucity refers to a small quantity or insufficiency of something. It is often used in formal contexts or written language.

  • Given the paucity of evidence, the researchers could not draw any definitive conclusions
  • The paucity of resources in the area has limited development projects

Examples of usage

  • The children showed signs of malnutrition due to the ongoing famine in the region.
  • Many families were displaced as a result of the severe famine.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from the Latin 'faminia,' which refers to hunger or starvation.
  • Throughout history, famines have occurred due to crop failures, wars, or natural disasters.

Effects on Society

  • Severe food shortages can lead to major social unrest and conflicts, as people struggle for resources.
  • Children are particularly vulnerable during famines, often suffering from malnutrition and stunted growth.

Cultural References

  • Famine has often been depicted in literature and films, illustrating the struggles of characters during hard times.
  • Many cultures have created songs and stories to raise awareness and remind others of the importance of food security.

Response and Solutions

  • Governments and organizations often respond to famine by providing food aid and establishing relief programs.
  • Innovative agricultural practices and sustainable farming methods are promoted to prevent future famines.

Notable Historical Events

  • The Great Famine in Ireland between 1845 and 1852 led to the deaths of about a million people and significant emigration.
  • The Bengal Famine of 1943 resulted in the deaths of millions in India, exacerbated by British colonial policies.

Origin of 'famine'

The word 'famine' originated from the Latin word 'fames', which means hunger. Throughout history, famines have been a recurring challenge for societies, leading to widespread suffering and loss of life. Efforts to prevent and mitigate famines continue to be a focus of humanitarian organizations and governments around the world.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,052 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.