Orphan: meaning, definitions and examples

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orphan

[ˈɔːrfən ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

child

A child whose parents are dead or have abandoned them.

Synonyms

foster child, foundling, ward.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
orphan	Describes a child whose parents have both died. Often used in literature, social work, and discussions about adoption and child welfare. After the tragic accident, he was left an orphan. The orphanage took in orphans from all over the country.
foundling	An old-fashioned term for a child who has been abandoned by their parents and found by others. This term is rare and mostly used in historical contexts or literature. The parish took care of the foundling left at their gates. In the novel, the protagonist discovers they were a foundling raised by strangers.
ward	In legal terms, this denotes a minor placed under the protection of a guardian by the court. Common in legal discussions and court proceedings related to guardianship. The court declared him a ward of the state. She was appointed guardian of her young ward.
foster child	Refers to a child who is living temporarily with a family other than their biological parents due to various reasons like neglect, abuse, or death of parents. This term is often used in social services and family law contexts. She has been a foster child for three years now. The agency placed the foster child with a loving family.

Examples of usage

He was an orphan at the age of five.
The orphanage provided shelter for many orphaned children.
Being an orphan, he had to learn to be independent at a young age.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

animal

A young animal that has lost its mother.

Synonyms

calf, cub, pup.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
orphan	Used to refer to a child who has lost both parents, typically one who has lost them due to death. She was an orphan taken in by a loving family The war left many children as orphans
cub	Used to refer to the young of certain animals like lions, tigers, bears, and other carnivores. The lioness watched over her cubs as they played A bear cub follows its mother through the forest
pup	Typically used to refer to young dogs, but can also apply to young of certain other animals like wolves, seals, and some rodents. The dog gave birth to a litter of pups A wolf pup learns to hunt by watching its pack
calf	Used to refer to the young of large mammals like cows, elephants, or whales. This word is typically used in farming or when discussing wildlife. The farmer took care of the newborn calf A mother whale often stays close to her calf in the ocean

Examples of usage

The zookeepers took care of the orphaned baby elephant.
The orphaned kitten was adopted by a loving family.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek 'orphanos', which means ' bereft or lost.'
In Old French, it was 'orfeins', reflecting the ancient view of children without parents.
This term has been in use since the 13th century, showing its long history and importance in society.

Cultural Perspectives

In many cultures, orphans have been depicted as heroes in stories, emphasizing their strength and resilience.
Historically, various civilizations took measures to care for orphans, showcasing societal responsibilities toward vulnerable children.
Some cultures have special festivals or days dedicated to raising awareness and support for orphans, reflecting community care.

Literature

Famous literary figures like Oliver Twist and Harry Potter became beloved characters, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of orphans.
The theme of abandonment and finding one's family is common in children’s stories, resonating with the orphan experience.
Orphan characters often symbolize hope and the possibility of family, inspiring readers and audiences globally.

Statistics

As of recent estimates, over 140 million children worldwide are considered orphans, highlighting a significant global issue.
Many orphans face challenges like lack of access to education, health care, and emotional support.
Non-profit organizations work tirelessly to provide care and improve living conditions for orphans, aiming to give them brighter futures.

Psychology

Studies show that being an orphan can affect a child's emotional development, leading to feelings of isolation or abandonment.
Despite challenges, many orphans exhibit remarkable resilience and can thrive with proper support and love.
Therapeutic programs specifically for orphans focus on building trust and helping them form healthy relationships.

Translations

Translations of the word "orphan" in other languages:

🇵🇹 órfão

🇮🇳 अनाथ

🇩🇪 Waise

🇮🇩 yatim piatu

🇺🇦 сирота

🇵🇱 sierota

🇯🇵 孤児 (こじ)

🇫🇷 orphelin

🇪🇸 huérfano

🇹🇷 yetim

🇰🇷 고아 (goa)

🇸🇦 يتيم (yateem)

🇨🇿 sirotek

🇸🇰 sirota

🇨🇳 孤儿 (gū'ér)

🇸🇮 sirota

🇮🇸 munaðarlaus

🇰🇿 жетім

🇬🇪 ობოლი (oboli)

🇦🇿 yetim

🇲🇽 huérfano

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #12,044, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
12041 tempo
12042 crawled
12043 intimated
12044 orphan
12045 reimbursed
12046 cache
12047 perpetually
...