undernutrition

American  

[uhn-der-noo-trish-uhn, -nyoo-] / ˌʌn dər nuˈtrɪʃ ən, -nyu- /

noun

1. nutritional deficiency resulting from lack of food or from the inability of the body to convert or absorb it.

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Etymology

Origin of undernutrition

First recorded in 1895–1900; under- + nutrition

Compare meaning

How does undernutrition compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• malnutrition vs. undernutrition

Example Sentences

The researchers suggested that including modest amounts of animal-source foods may help prevent undernutrition and loss of lean muscle mass in very old age, compared with strictly plant-based diets.

From Science Daily • Feb. 26, 2026

Their immune systems are generally weaker, especially if undernutrition is in the mix.

From Slate • Aug. 23, 2024

Several studies have shown that undernutrition affects one in ten older people living independently at home.

From Salon • Feb. 13, 2024

"To prevent undernutrition in children, we must also address malnutrition in adolescent girls and women," she added.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2023

In New York in this past winter, two things were observed which are undoubtedly closely connected—increased undernutrition among school children, and decreased use of milk.

From Food Guide for War Service at Home Prepared under the direction of the United States Food Administration in co-operation with the United States Department of Agriculture and the Bureau of Education, with a preface by Herbert Hoover by Powdermaker, Florence