Meagre: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Old French 'megre,' which means 'thin' or 'poor.'
• In Latin, it traces back to 'macrus,' meaning 'thin' or 'slender.'
• The term has evolved in English to describe not just physical thinness but also scarcity.

Literature

• In literature, characters with meagre resources often face challenges, representing struggles against adversity.
• The word is often used in poetry to evoke feelings of sadness or longing for abundance.
• Famous novels highlight meager living conditions to critique societal issues, such as poverty and inequality.

Psychology

• The perception of meagerness can lead to feelings of deprivation and affect mental well-being.
• Studies suggest that people who feel they have meager resources, financially or emotionally, may experience higher stress levels.
• The association of meagerness with failure can impact self-esteem and motivation.

Cultural Perspectives

• Different cultures perceive meagerness variably; for some, living simply is celebrated as a virtue, while for others, it may indicate hardship.
• In some traditions, meagre offerings in rituals highlight humility and the importance of spiritual wealth over material wealth.
• Modern minimalist movements embrace the idea of living with less, showcasing a shift in how meagerness is valued.

Economics

• In economic discussions, a meagre supply of resources can lead to inflation and increased competition.
• Countries with meagre economic growth often struggle to provide for their populations, leading to social unrest.
• Analysts use the term to describe budgets that lack sufficient funding for essential services.

At position #13,379, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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• 13376 augmentation
• 13377 happiest
• 13378 formality
• 13379 meagre
• 13380 wilfully
• 13381 congratulations
• 13382 sluggish
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