Famishing: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from Middle English 'famisshen', meaning to starve or suffer from hunger.
• It is derived from the Latin 'fames', which means hunger or famine, reflecting the word’s deep roots in expressing extreme need for food.

Cultural References

• In many cultures, sharing food is a common way to alleviate hunger, making feasts and communal meals central to social gatherings.
• Literature often depicts hungry characters as desperate or in dire situations, emphasizing the urgency and seriousness of hunger.

Health and Nutrition

• Prolonged famishing can lead to severe health problems, including malnutrition and organ failure, emphasizing the need for a balanced diet.
• Experiencing hunger can trigger physiological responses, such as increased cortisol levels, affecting mood and energy.

Psychology

• Hunger significantly impacts cognitive function, with studies suggesting that starving individuals may have difficulty making decisions.
• The feeling of being famished can lead to irritability and anxiety, showcasing the connection between hunger and emotional well-being.

Literature

• In Charles Dickens' 'Oliver Twist', the character Oliver famously asks for more food, highlighting the plight of the famishing in Victorian society.
• Poets often evoke hunger as a metaphor for longing or desire, illustrating how the feeling can extend beyond physical needs.