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Indigence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ’ธ
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indigence

[หˆษชndษชdส’ษ™ns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

extreme poverty

Indigence refers to a state of extreme poverty, where a person lacks the basic necessities of life, such as food, shelter, and clothing. It is a condition of severe deprivation and suffering.

Synonyms

destitution, neediness, penury, poverty.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
indigence

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

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

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

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

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.

Examples of usage

  • Many families in the region live in indigence, struggling to afford even a single meal a day.
  • The government has programs in place to help lift people out of indigence and provide them with opportunities for a better life.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Social Issues

  • Indigence can be caused by various factors, including unemployment, lack of education, and health issues.
  • Social safety nets aim to reduce indigence by providing support like food stamps and housing aid.
  • Communities often mobilize to help those experiencing indigence through food banks and shelters.

Psychological Impact

  • Experiencing indigence can lead to feelings of shame, anxiety, and isolation.
  • It may affect mental health, increasing the risk of depression and stress-related disorders.
  • Those living in poverty often report a reduced sense of control over their lives.

Literature

  • Many literary works explore the theme of indigence, highlighting the struggles of characters from poor backgrounds.
  • Classic novels like 'Oliver Twist' showcase the harsh realities of life for those in need during historical times.
  • Poetry often reflects on the emotional toll of living in poverty, evoking empathy and awareness.

Cultural Perspectives

  • Different cultures have unique ways of addressing and viewing indigence, with some emphasizing communal support.
  • In many societies, indigence can carry social stigmas, affecting how people perceive and treat those in need.
  • Art and music often reflect the experiences of indigence, serving as powerful tools for raising awareness and advocating for change.

Origin of 'indigence'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'indigens', which means 'needy' or 'in want'.
  • Originally, it described someone who needed help to survive or lacked basic resources.
  • It developed into its current form in Middle English, reflecting a broader understanding of poverty.

The word 'indigence' originated from the Latin word 'indigentia', meaning 'neediness' or 'want'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe a state of extreme poverty or deprivation. Over the centuries, the term has been associated with the struggles of the poor and the efforts to alleviate poverty through social programs and charity.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #28,732, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.