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destitute

adjective

/ˈdɛstɪtjuːt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of destitute

Extreme poverty, lack, and deprivation, often implying a complete absence of essential resources or means for a decent standard of living.
"The orphan was destitute and had to rely on charity to survive."

Detailed meaning of destitute

When someone or something is characterized as destitute, it signifies a condition of utter impoverishment and an inability to meet basic needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing. This term is typically applied to individuals or communities facing severe economic hardship, homelessness, or a complete lack of resources. "Destitute" underscores the dire and desperate circumstances in which people or entities find themselves, often highlighting the urgent need for assistance and support to overcome their extreme deprivation and suffering.

Example sentences containing destitute

1. The destitute beggar huddled in a corner, seeking shelter from the rain.
2. After the economic collapse, many families found themselves destitute and without resources.
3. The orphaned children were left destitute, with no one to care for them.
4. In the slums, the destitute lived in makeshift shelters and struggled to find food.
5. Her eyes told the story of a destitute soul who had faced countless hardships.
6. The charity organization provided assistance to the destitute population in the area.

History and etymology of destitute

The adjective 'destitute' has its etymological roots in the Latin word 'destitutus,' which is a combination of 'de-' (meaning 'completely') and 'statuere' (meaning 'to place' or 'to station'). 'Destitute' is used to describe a state of extreme poverty, lack, and deprivation, often implying a complete absence of essential resources or means for a decent standard of living. The term embodies the concept of individuals or communities being entirely without the basic necessities of life, such as food, shelter, and clothing. 'Destitute' reflects the dire circumstances that can result from economic hardship or social inequality and serves as a poignant reminder of the pressing need for social welfare, support systems, and efforts to alleviate poverty and suffering in society.

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Further usage examples of destitute

1. Despite his destitute circumstances, he never lost his sense of dignity.
2. The novel depicted the struggles of a destitute artist trying to make ends meet.
3. The once-thriving village had become destitute after the mine closed down.
4. A wave of compassion swept over her as she saw the destitute dog on the streets.
5. The government implemented programs to uplift the destitute communities.
6. Their generosity helped provide a warm meal for many destitute individuals.
7. The destitute conditions had forced many to resort to desperate measures.
8. She dedicated her life to helping the destitute and marginalized.
9. The war had left the city in ruins, leaving its inhabitants destitute.
10. He managed to turn his life around after years of being destitute.
11. The photographs captured the harsh realities faced by the destitute population.
12. The destitute old man radiated a sense of wisdom despite his hardships.
13. The charity's efforts aimed to provide medical care for the destitute.
14. Despite their destitute circumstances, they held onto their dreams of a better future.