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Definition of undernutrition

undernutrition

/ˌʌn.dɚ.nuːˈtrɪʃ.ən/
un · der · nu · tri · tion
Adjective:undernourished
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undernutrition Lexical Profile

undernutrition Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A physical condition resulting from an insufficient intake or poor absorption of dietary energy and essential nutrients, often leading to stunting, wasting, or nutrient deficiencies.

Example

"Public health initiatives in the region focus on reducing childhood undernutrition through fortified school meals."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for undernutrition
Antonyms
View all antonyms for undernutrition

Word Nuance & Usage

While often used interchangeably with 'malnutrition' in everyday speech, in clinical and public health contexts 'undernutrition' specifically denotes a deficiency of calories or essential nutrients, whereas 'malnutrition' is a broader umbrella term that also encompasses overnutrition and obesity.

• Rhymes for undernutrition

• Nearby Words

undernourish
undernourished
undernourishment
undernutrition
underoccupied
underpaid
underpants

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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