Famish Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🍽️
Add to dictionary
famish
[ˈfæmɪʃ ]
Definitions
Context #1 | Verb
feeling of extreme hunger
To be extremely hungry or to suffer from extreme hunger. This term is often used in a literary or poetic context.
Examples of usage
- I could feel myself begin to famish after not eating for two days.
- The prisoners were left to famish in their cells, with no food or water.
Context #2 | Verb
to deprive of food
To starve or deprive someone of food, leading to extreme hunger. This term is often used in a historical or dramatic context.
Examples of usage
- The cruel king would famish his enemies as a form of punishment.
- The siege of the city resulted in the citizens being famished.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In Shakespeare's works, characters often mention famishing due to famine or war, highlighting the severity of their situation.
- Charles Dickens frequently explored themes of hunger and poverty, using 'famish' to depict the dire needs of his characters.
- Modern authors sometimes use 'famish' poetically to evoke a strong emotional response related to longing or desire.
Cultural Context
- Different cultures have unique approaches to hunger; for instance, fasting has spiritual meanings in various religions.
- In some societies, food scarcity has led to the creation of traditional dishes that maximize the use of limited resources.
- The image of famishing often appears in art, symbolizing both physical and emotional starvation, resonating across cultures.
Psychology
- Experiencing extreme hunger can affect mood and cognitive functions, making people feel irritable or unfocused.
- Chronic hunger can lead to anxiety and stress, impacting mental health significantly.
- Studies show that the perception of hunger can be influenced by factors like environment and social settings.
Health
- Feeling famished is a signal that the body needs energy and nutrients, a key aspect of maintaining health.
- Extreme hunger can lead to overeating, as the body tries to compensate for the energy deficit during the next meal.
- Understanding hunger cues is important in promoting healthy eating habits and balanced diets.
Origin of 'famish'
Main points about word origin
- The word has roots in the Middle English 'femen,' which means to starve.
- It may also have connections to the Old French term 'faim' meaning hunger.
- Historically, 'famish' has been used in literature to describe deep hunger, enhancing its dramatic effect.
The word 'famish' comes from Middle English 'famen', meaning to starve. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe extreme hunger or starvation. Over time, 'famish' has been predominantly used in literary and historical contexts to portray hunger in a dramatic or poignant manner.