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Translate files Poverty
/ˈpävərtē/
Meaning & Definition
noun
The state of being extremely poor.
Many families live in poverty, struggling to afford basic necessities.
The condition of having inadequate financial resources or prosperity.
Efforts to reduce poverty have become a major focus for governments around the world.
A lack of material possessions or wealth.
She dedicated her life to helping those trapped in the cycle of poverty.
The state of being inferior in quality or insufficient in amount.
The poverty of resources in that region limits economic development.
Etymology
Middle English, from Old French 'povreté', from Latin 'paupertas', from 'pauper' meaning poor.
Common Phrases and Expressions
absolute poverty:
A condition in which an individual or family is unable to meet basic needs for food, clothing, and shelter.
poverty line:
The threshold below which a person is considered to be living in poverty.
cycle of poverty:
A situation where poverty persists in a family or community across generations.
Related Words
Slang Meanings
Broke
After paying all my bills, I'm totally broke this month.
Living hand to mouth
She's living hand to mouth, just getting by each week.
On the breadline
With my current income, I might be on the breadline soon.