Malnourished: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is used in a medical or nutritional context to describe someone who has severe nutritional deficiencies that affect their health.

• The doctor found that the child was severely malnourished.
• Malnourished patients need immediate medical attention.

Similar to 'malnourished', this word is used to describe someone lacking necessary nutrients for proper health, but it can also imply a less severe condition than 'malnourished'.

• The report indicated that a large portion of the population is undernourished.
• Undernourished children may experience developmental delays.

This word is often used to describe someone who is not getting enough food, often implying neglect or insufficient food supply rather than a medical condition.

• The stray cat looked underfed and in need of care.
• During the famine, many families were underfed and struggling to find food.

This term is slightly less severe than 'malnourished' and can be used in everyday language to describe someone who is not receiving adequate nutrition, but it doesn't necessarily indicate a medical emergency.

• Due to a lack of access to fresh foods, many people in the area are poorly nourished.
• She was poorly nourished because she skipped meals frequently.