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Impoverished Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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impoverished

[ɪmˈpɒvərɪʃt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

living condition

Extremely poor; deprived of wealth or resources.

Synonyms

deprived, destitute, needy, poverty-stricken.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
impoverished

Describes someone or something that has been made poor or is in a state of poverty. Often used in a broader or more formal context, such as describing regions or communities that have suffered due to economic decline.

  • The war left the previously prosperous country impoverished.
  • Efforts are being made to support impoverished communities through education and healthcare.
destitute

Describes someone who is extremely poor and lacking the means to provide for basic needs. It carries a strong negative connotation and is often used to highlight severe hardship.

  • After losing his job and home, he found himself completely destitute.
  • The destitute families were provided with shelter and food by the aid organization.
poverty-stricken

Describes people or areas severely affected by poverty, often highlighting the extent and severity of the economic deprivation.

  • The poverty-stricken village struggled to afford even the most basic medical supplies.
  • Programs have been put in place to aid poverty-stricken families in urban areas.
needy

Refers to individuals who require help or support due to a lack of resources. This term can sometimes carry a mild negative connotation, suggesting ongoing dependency.

  • She volunteers to help the needy by working at the local food bank.
  • During the winter, many organizations run drives to collect clothes for the needy.
deprived

Used to describe individuals or groups lacking basic necessities, often emphasizing the absence of opportunity or resources. Commonly used in discussions about social issues and inequalities.

  • The charity is focused on helping deprived children get access to proper education.
  • Growing up in a deprived neighborhood can limit one's future opportunities.

Examples of usage

  • The impoverished family struggled to put food on the table.
  • Many children in the impoverished neighborhood lacked access to proper education.
  • She dedicated her life to helping the impoverished communities.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Historical Context

  • Throughout history, many societies have faced cycles of impoverishment, often during wars or economic crises.
  • The Great Depression in the 1930s left millions impoverished worldwide, leading to significant changes in government policies regarding welfare.

Cultural Impact

  • In literature, impoverished characters are often portrayed as heroes who overcome great struggles, symbolizing resilience and hope.
  • Films often depict the harsh realities of impoverished life, raising awareness and empathy among viewers.

Economics

  • Impoverished communities typically face barriers to education, healthcare, and employment, perpetuating a cycle of poverty.
  • Microfinance initiatives aim to empower impoverished individuals by providing small loans for starting businesses.

Psychology

  • Living in impoverished conditions can lead to chronic stress, which affects mental health and overall well-being.
  • Research shows that the experience of poverty can change brain chemistry, impacting decision-making abilities.

Origin of 'impoverished'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'impoverire', which means to make poor.
  • It entered the English language in the 15th century, linking poverty with conditions that cause lack and suffering.

The word 'impoverished' originated from the Latin word 'impoverire', which means 'to make poor'. The term has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe individuals or communities lacking financial resources or material possessions. Throughout history, the concept of impoverishment has been a central focus of discussions on social inequality and economic disparity.

See also: impoverishing, impoverishment.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,996, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.