Indigence: meaning, definitions and examples

Indigence describes severe poverty and is often used in formal or literary settings.

• The artist lived in indigence but never lost his passion for painting.
• In his old age, he faced indigence, relying on charitable organizations for basic needs.

Poverty is a general term for the condition of lacking sufficient money or resources. It is widely used in both formal and informal settings.

• Many organizations are working to reduce poverty worldwide.
• She grew up in poverty but worked hard to change her circumstances.

Destitution refers to the state of having no money, no belongings, and being unable to support oneself. It is used in both formal and informal contexts.

• After losing his job and home, he found himself in total destitution.
• The refugees escaped war but now face destitution in the camps.

Penury describes extreme poverty to the point of being unable to provide for basic needs. It is often used in literary or historical contexts.

• Despite his fame, the writer died in penury.
• The family sank into penury after the financial collapse.

Neediness implies a state of requiring financial help or support. It can also refer to emotional neediness and may have a slightly negative connotation in interpersonal contexts.

• Her neediness for affection drove many of her friends away.
• The charity provides support to children living in neediness.