Penniless Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
💸
penniless
[ˈpɛnɪlɪs ]
Definition
financial status
Having no money; completely without funds.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| penniless |
When someone has no money at all but it is not necessarily a permanent situation; it can be temporary.
|
| broke |
A casual and informal way to describe someone who temporarily has no money. It is often used in everyday conversations.
|
| bankrupt |
This term is often used in a legal context where an individual or business is unable to repay their outstanding debts. It is a formal term and implies a significant financial crisis.
|
| destitute |
Indicates a severe level of poverty where a person lacks the basic necessities of life such as food, shelter, and clothing. It has a more serious and dramatic connotation.
|
Examples of usage
- I found myself penniless after losing my job.
- She was forced to live a penniless existence on the streets.
- Without any savings, he was left penniless in his retirement.
- Being penniless, she had to rely on the generosity of others for food and shelter.
- Despite his best efforts, he remained penniless and destitute.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In many literary works, characters who are penniless often have rich inner lives or resilience, highlighting the contrast between material wealth and emotional depth.
- Classic tales, such as those by Charles Dickens, frequently feature penniless protagonists, bringing attention to social issues of poverty during the Victorian era.
- Modern literature often explores themes of homelessness or financial struggle, showing the different reasons people might find themselves penniless.
Social Commentary
- The concept of being penniless can lead to discussions about social injustice and economic disparity in society.
- Crises such as economic depression often result in increased numbers of penniless individuals, sparking public discourse on welfare and support systems.
- In many cultures, being penniless can also affect one's social status and self-esteem, impacting relationships and community dynamics.
Psychology
- Studies show that financial insecurity, such as being penniless, can lead to mental health challenges like stress and anxiety.
- Individuals experiencing poverty may develop resilience and resourcefulness, adapting their lifestyles to cope with financial limitations.
- The stigma associated with being penniless can lead to feelings of shame, impacting both personal identity and social interactions.
Pop Culture
- Many films depict penniless characters who embark on adventures, highlighting the idea that wealth isn't necessary for a fulfilling life.
- Reality TV shows often feature challenges based on limited financial resources, illustrating how people cope when they are penniless.
- Songs and music often explore themes of being penniless, resonating with listeners who relate to financial struggles.
Origin of 'penniless'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'penniless' comes from the word 'penny,' which is a small unit of currency, combined with 'less' meaning without.
- It has been used since the early 16th century, reflecting economic conditions where even a small coin carried significant value.
- The word can be linked to various historical periods where people might have lost wealth due to wars or economic downturns.
The word 'penniless' originated from the combination of the word 'penny' and the suffix '-less'. The word 'penny' comes from the Old English 'penig', which referred to a coin. Over time, 'penniless' evolved to describe someone without any money or funds. It has been used in English language since the 16th century.