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famine

noun

/ˈfæm ɪn/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of famine

A widespread and extreme scarcity of food in a particular region or country, resulting in a severe and prolonged hunger crisis.
"The famine in the region led to widespread starvation and desperation."

Detailed meaning of famine

It is a catastrophic event that occurs when there is a significant disruption in the availability and distribution of food, leading to a significant number of people suffering from malnutrition and even starvation. Famine is often caused by a combination of factors, including natural disasters such as droughts, floods, or pests, as well as socio-political issues such as war, conflict, or economic instability. It is characterized by a sharp decline in agricultural production, inadequate access to food and water, and the loss of livelihoods, which can have devastating consequences on the affected population, particularly the most vulnerable, such as children, the elderly, and the impoverished. Famine not only poses immediate threats to human lives but also has long-term consequences, including increased mortality rates, weakened immune systems, and irreversible damage to the affected communities' social and economic fabric. Efforts to address and prevent famines often involve emergency aid, food assistance programs, sustainable agricultural practices, and initiatives to promote resilience and self-sufficiency in vulnerable regions.

Example sentences containing famine

1. International organizations worked together to provide relief during the devastating famine.
2. The crops failed due to a prolonged drought, exacerbating the looming famine.
3. The government declared a state of emergency as the famine reached critical levels.
4. Families were forced to flee their homes in search of food during the famine.
5. The images of malnourished children highlighted the severity of the famine.
6. Humanitarian aid workers risked their lives to deliver food and water to famine-stricken areas.

History and etymology of famine

The noun 'famine' has a historical and often tragic etymology. It traces its origins to the Latin word 'fames,' which means 'hunger.' In Roman times, 'fames' was used to describe extreme and widespread food shortages, often resulting in severe hunger and even starvation. As Latin evolved into Old French and later Middle English, 'famine' retained its fundamental meaning, describing a dire situation characterized by a significant scarcity of food in a specific region or country, leading to prolonged and severe hunger crises. The etymology of 'famine' underscores its deep historical connection to the devastating consequences of food shortages and the enduring human struggle against hunger, a concept that remains tragically relevant to this day.

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Further usage examples of famine

1. The famine had a devastating impact on the local economy, causing widespread poverty.
2. Generous donations poured in from around the world to help alleviate the famine.
3. The government implemented measures to prevent future famines, including improving agricultural infrastructure.
4. The famine relief efforts focused on providing nutritional support to vulnerable populations.
5. Despite the challenges, the region managed to recover and rebuild after the devastating famine.
6. The famine in that war-torn region is a humanitarian crisis.
7. Aid organizations are working tirelessly to alleviate the famine.
8. The government's response to the famine has been criticized.
9. The media coverage drew attention to the severity of the famine.
10. Donations poured in to support those affected by the famine.
11. The effects of the famine will be felt for generations.
12. The famine's impact on children's health is heartbreaking.
13. International efforts are underway to combat the famine.
14. A lack of rainfall contributed to the worsening famine.
15. The famine has forced many families to flee their homes.
16. Relief efforts are struggling to reach remote famine-stricken areas.
17. Government intervention is crucial to prevent future famines.
18. The famine has sparked debates about global food security.
19. NGOs are providing food aid to famine-affected communities.
20. The famine's root causes are complex and multifaceted.
21. Many are calling for a united response to eradicate famine.
22. The photographs from the famine-stricken region are haunting.
23. The UN issued an urgent appeal to address the famine.
24. The famine has left a devastating mark on the population.
25. Efforts to prevent famine include sustainable agriculture practices.