Neediest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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neediest

[หˆniหdiษ™st ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

emotional state

The term 'neediest' refers to individuals or groups that require the most support or assistance. It often describes people who are emotionally dependent on others and may lack self-sufficiency. These individuals may express a strong desire for companionship or help and can become distressed without it. The connotation is typically negative, as it implies an excess of neediness that can be burdensome to others.

Synonyms

dependent, needy, vulnerable.

Examples of usage

  • She felt like the neediest person in the room.
  • His neediest moments came after a breakup.
  • The neediest children in the shelter need our help.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Social Psychology

  • Research shows people often feel compassion for the neediest individuals, influencing charity and support programs.
  • Perceptions of neediness can vary; some may see it as a weakness, while others recognize it as a call for community assistance.

Pop Culture

  • TV shows often depict the neediest characters as comical or endearing, drawing sympathy from audiences.
  • The term is frequently used in discussions about social issues, highlighting peopleโ€™s pleas for help in society.

Economics

  • In economics, understanding who the neediest are helps in designing welfare programs that aim to alleviate poverty.
  • The allocation of resources often prioritizes the neediest groups in society to ensure equity.

Education

  • Educational institutions often identify the neediest students to provide additional resources, like tutoring or scholarships.
  • Programs that focus on the neediest families in education strive to bridge gaps in access and support.

Origin of 'neediest'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'neediest' comes from the word 'need,' which has roots in Old English, meaning necessity.
  • The suffix '-iest' is used to form adjectives that describe the highest degree of a quality, making 'neediest' indicate the most need.

The word 'neediest' is derived from the base word 'need', which comes from Old English 'nฤ“od' meaning 'necessity, want', and also has roots in Proto-Germanic *naudล. The suffix '-iest' is a superlative suffix in English, indicating the highest degree of a quality. As a concept, neediness has evolved over time, becoming associated with both emotional and physical dependencies in human relationships. Over the years, the term has been widely used in psychology and social discussions to address issues of attachment, dependency, and the impacts of lack of support on mental health.


Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,010, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.