indigence
IN-dih-jens
/ˈɪndɪdʒəns/
A state of extreme poverty; destitution; a lack of the means of subsistence.
Often implies a state of being without the basic necessities for living, and a reliance on charity or public assistance. It's a more formal and severe term than 'poverty.'
The story behind the word. The word 'indigence' comes from the Latin 'indigentia,' meaning 'need' or 'want.' This, in turn, is derived from 'indigere,' meaning 'to need' or 'to want,' which combines 'in-' (into) with 'egere' (to need). It entered English in the 15th century, carrying the weight of severe need and destitution.
Word relationships
- destitution: Emphasizes a complete lack of means to live.
- penury: Suggests extreme poverty, often implying a long-term, severe condition.
- affluence: The state of having a great deal of money; wealth.
- wealth: Abundance of valuable possessions or money.
Commonly confused with
- poverty: Indigence is a more severe and formal term for poverty, implying a lack of basic subsistence.
Word family
- indigent (adjective): Suffering from extreme poverty; impoverished.
Collocations
- state of indigence
- abject indigence
- fall into indigence
Example sentences
- "Many families, through no fault of their own, found themselves in a state of indigence, relying on soup kitchens and shelters." Describing the plight of the homeless.
- "The parish records frequently mention cases of extreme indigence, requiring immediate relief from the local authorities." From a historical document on social welfare.
Memory hook
Think of 'IN-DI-GENCE' as 'in dire need, no gents' (no money, no resources). In dire need
When not to use
For general discussions about economic inequality or moderate financial struggles, 'poverty' is more appropriate. 'Indigence' is reserved for severe lack.
Fun facts
- The term 'indigent' is still used in legal contexts, particularly to refer to defendants who cannot afford legal representation.
Explore more words
indignity, deprivation, ascetic, ignominy, charitable, austerity
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