Meaning & Definition of word "Famine"

Famine

/ˈfæm.ɪn/

1. extreme scarcity of food affecting a large population over a prolonged period.
- Example: The drought led to a severe famine that devastated the region.
2. a period during which food is unavailable or inadequate.
- Example: The country experienced a famine after the natural disaster destroyed the crops.
3. a condition of extreme hunger or starvation.
- Example: Many children died of famine-related causes in the war-torn area.
4. an extreme shortage of anything, leading to suffering.
- Example: The famine for resources in the industry has led to widespread unemployment.

Middle English, from Old French 'famine', from Latin 'faminia' meaning 'hunger'.

famine relief:

Aid given to those suffering from famine.

famine-stricken:

Affected by severe shortage of food.

famine conditions:

Circumstances resulting from extreme food scarcity.

hunger:

A feeling of discomfort or weakness caused by lack of food.

scarcity:

The state of being in short supply.

drought:

A prolonged dry period with a lack of rain, leading to water shortages.

Meaning: Absence of abundance

Example Sentence: When it comes to snacks, it's a total famine in my house.

Meaning: A situation of severe deprivation

Example Sentence: This party is a famine compared to last year's feast.