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Definition of destitution

destitution

/ˌdɛstɪˈtjuːʃən/
des · ti · tu · tion
Adverb:destitutely
•
Adjective:destitute
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destitution Lexical Profile

destitution Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A state of extreme poverty in which one lacks the basic means to provide for oneself, such as food, shelter, and clothing.

Example

"The economic collapse left thousands of families facing severe destitution without access to adequate housing or nutrition."

2

A complete lack, absence, or deprivation of a particular quality, resource, or necessity.

Example

"Critics pointed to the moral destitution of the regime's policies as the primary cause of public unrest."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for destitution

• Nearby Words

destined
destiny
destitute
destitution
destress
destroy
destroyable

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French destitucion or directly from Latin destitutionem ('abandonment, forsaking'), a noun of action from destituere ('to forsake, abandon, leave alone'), formed from de- ('away') and statuere ('to put, place, stand').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Destitution. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/destitution
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