Underfed Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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underfed

[ˌʌndərˈfɛd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

describing a person or animal

Not adequately nourished or provided with food. Lacking sufficient food or nutrition.

Synonyms

malnourished, starved, undernourished.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
underfed	This word is best used to describe someone or something that has not been given enough food. It can refer to both temporary and chronic situations. The stray dog looked underfed After the long journey, the travelers were underfed and exhausted
undernourished	Similar to 'malnourished', this word describes a state where a person or animal lacks proper nutrition. It often implies a long-term deficiency. Many children in the developing country are undernourished She was undernourished due to a poor diet
malnourished	This word is used to describe a condition where the person or animal has not received the necessary nutrients over time, leading to health problems. It is often used in medical or humanitarian contexts. The children in the impoverished region were malnourished The doctor diagnosed the patient as malnourished due to a lack of essential vitamins
starved	This word is often used when someone or something is suffering from extreme hunger, usually implying a severe and potentially life-threatening situation. It has a strong negative connotation. The prisoners were starved for days The cat was so starved it could barely walk

Examples of usage

The underfed child was visibly weak and malnourished.
The underfed puppies were rescued and given proper care.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

describing a plant or crop

Not given enough food or nutrients to grow properly. Lacking in proper nourishment for growth.

Synonyms

deprived, malnourished, starved.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
underfed	Use this word when someone or something is not getting enough food over a period of time, but it does not suggest extreme hunger or suffering. The stray dogs in the neighborhood looked underfed and thin. The garden plants seemed underfed because they had not been fertilized properly.
deprived	This word applies when someone is lacking something essential such as food, sleep, or other basic needs. It has a broader application beyond just food. After working late nights for weeks, she felt completely sleep-deprived. Children in poverty-stricken areas are often deprived of adequate nutrition and education.
starved	Refers to extreme hunger and is often used to describe severe or life-threatening lack of food. It has a strong, urgent connotation. The prisoners were starved, and some of them did not survive the harsh conditions. After not eating for two days, he felt absolutely starved and craved a large meal.
malnourished	Describes a condition where someone is not getting the right balance of nutrients, often due to poor or unbalanced diet. It is used in medical or technical contexts. The doctor noted that the patient appeared malnourished and immediately recommended a diet plan. Malnourished children are at a higher risk of diseases and developmental issues.

Examples of usage

The underfed crops suffered from stunted growth due to lack of nutrients.
The underfed plants wilted and died in the dry soil.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Health and Nutrition

Many people around the world suffer from being underfed, which can lead to serious health problems.
Children who are underfed can have trouble growing, learning, and staying healthy.
The body needs a certain amount of nutrients to function well, and not getting enough can weaken the immune system.

Social Issues

Underfeeding is often linked to poverty, where families can't afford enough food.
Non-profit organizations work to combat underfeeding by providing food and resources to those in need.
Awareness campaigns often highlight underfeeding as a critical issue in global development.

Psychology

Not having enough food can affect a person's mood and behavior, leading to higher levels of stress and anxiety.
Research shows that underfed individuals may have trouble focusing and performing well at work or school.
Food scarcity can create feelings of helplessness, impacting mental health as well as physical health.

Historical Context

Throughout history, famines have caused large populations to become underfed, impacting societies and economies.
Food distribution methods have evolved, but many areas still struggle with underfeeding due to conflict or natural disasters.
The Great Depression saw many people become underfed due to economic hardship.

Origin of 'underfed'

The word 'underfed' originated from the combination of the prefix 'under-' meaning 'insufficiently' and 'fed' which comes from the Old English word 'fedan' meaning 'to nourish'. The term has been used since the 19th century to describe individuals, animals, plants, or crops that are not adequately nourished or provided with food.