noun
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the state of being destitute; utter poverty
-
rare lack or deficiency
Usage
What are other ways to say destitution? Destitution is utter poverty or the lack of the means of subsistence. How does this noun compare to synonyms poverty and indigence? Learn more on Thesaurus.com.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of destitution
1400–50; late Middle English < Latin dēstitūtiōn- (stem of dēstitūtiō ) an abandoning, equivalent to dēstitūt ( us ) ( see destitute) + -iōn- -ion
Explanation
Destitution is an unfortunate state in which a person lacks something important — like money, food, companionship, or even hope. Everyone is down on their luck sometimes. Most people will get seriously sick at some point, lose a job, or have a marriage fall apart. However, most people won't fall into destitution, which is a truly hopeless state. Homeless people are in a state of destitution. People starving or without medical care are in a state of destitution. If someone is in a state of destitution, he is experiencing utter despair.
Vocabulary lists containing destitution
The Cuckoo's Calling
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Orphan Train
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The Count of Monte Cristo
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Destitution, he said in effect, is just around the corner.
From Time Magazine Archive
Our recent articles on "Scientific Destitution in New York" and "The Scientific Value of the Central Park," have called forth numerous letters from correspondents, and have been extensively noticed by the press.
Destitution and bad company have led you astray—but I trust that your future conduct will prove your sincere repentance.
From City Crimes or Life in New York and Boston by Thompson, George
Destitution, absolute hunger, cold and nakedness, are no more subjects for artistic representation than sickness, disease, and the real details of idiotcy, madness, and death.
From Records of a Girlhood by Kemble, Fanny
In the autumn of 1912 Mrs. Webb came to the conclusion that the work of the National Committee for the Prevention of Destitution could not be carried on indefinitely on a large scale.
From The History of the Fabian Society by Pease, Edward R.
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
