Penury Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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penury
[หpษnjสri ]
Definition
state of extreme poverty
Penury refers to the state of extreme poverty, destitution, or insufficiency of resources. It is characterized by a lack of basic necessities such as food, shelter, and clothing.
Synonyms
destitution, indigence, poverty, privation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| penury |
Used to describe extreme and severe poverty, often implying a complete lack of resources.
|
| poverty |
A general term for the state of being extremely poor, encompassing a wide range of economic hardship.
|
| destitution |
Suggests a state of absolute poverty where one lacks the means to sustain oneself, often with an emphasis on being deprived of basic needs like food and shelter.
|
| indigence |
Refers to a level of poverty that is characterized by a lack of money, but often implies that the person is living in humble or minimal conditions rather than complete destitution.
|
| privation |
Conveys the experience of severe lack of basic comforts and necessities, usually as a result of poverty but can also occur due to other circumstances.
|
Examples of usage
- Her family lived in penury, unable to afford even the most basic necessities.
- The documentary highlighted the plight of those living in penury in the slums.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Several classic novels explore themes of penury, showcasing characters struggling with poverty in society.
- Charles Dickens often portrayed penury through his characters, emphasizing the harsh realities of Victorian England.
Economics
- Penury can lead to a cycle of poverty, where lack of resources prevents individuals from improving their situation.
- In developing countries, a high percentage of the population experiences penury, impacting overall economic growth.
Sociology
- Penury is often linked to lack of education and limited access to job opportunities.
- Social stigmas can surround those living in penury, affecting their mental health and societal integration.
History
- Throughout history, many civilizations have experienced penury during times of war or famine.
- The Great Depression in the 1930s saw a significant rise in penury in the United States and around the world.
Origin of 'penury'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin word 'penuria', which means lack or scarcity.
- In the late Middle Ages, 'penury' began to refer specifically to extreme poverty.
The word 'penury' originated from the Latin word 'penuria', meaning 'want' or 'need'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century to describe the state of extreme poverty or deprivation. Throughout history, penury has been a prevalent issue in societies, leading to various social and economic challenges.
See also: penurious.