impoverish

[im-pov-er-ish, -pov-rish]

verb (used with object)

1. to reduce to poverty.

   a country impoverished by war.

   Antonyms: enrich

2. to make poor in quality, productiveness, etc.; exhaust the strength or richness of.

   Bad farming practices impoverished the soil.

   Synonyms: cripple, fatigue, enervate, weaken, drain, deplete
   Antonyms: enrich

impoverish

/ ɪmˈpɒvərɪʃ /

verb

1. to make poor or diminish the quality of

   to impoverish society by cutting the grant to the arts

2. to deprive (soil, etc) of fertility

Other Word Forms

• impoverisher noun
• impoverishment noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of impoverish¹

1400–50; late Middle English empoverishen < Middle French empovriss- (long stem of empovrir ), equivalent to em- em- ¹ + povre poor + -iss -ish ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of impoverish¹

C15: from Old French empovrir, from povre _poor

Example Sentences

His extradition comes as the impoverished country between Romania and Ukraine is preparing for 28 September elections that will determine whether Moldova continues its integration with the EU, or returns to Russia's political influence.

From BBC

Its athletic department has been labeled as impoverished and directionless, with Jarmond squarely in the crosshairs of most detractors.

From Los Angeles Times

“Shame on those in government who forget this founding truth. As for our employers, our words have made you rich. Silencing us impoverishes the whole world.”

From Los Angeles Times

Karki, 73, was sworn in during a brief ceremony, becoming the first woman to lead the impoverished Himalayan nation after a deal was reached with the protest leaders.

From BBC

Why do you say the popular economic argument is valid but “morally impoverished”?

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• bankrupt 
• deplete 
• exhaust 
• ruin