underprivileged

[uhn-der-priv-uh-lijd, -priv-lijd]

adjective

1. denied the enjoyment of the normal privileges or rights of a society because of low economic and social status.

   Synonyms: deprived, disadvantaged

underprivileged

/ ˌʌndəˈprɪvɪlɪdʒd /

adjective

1. lacking the rights and advantages of other members of society; deprived

Word History and Origins

Origin of underprivileged¹

First recorded in 1920–25; under- + privileged

Example Sentences

Richard’s family was Orthodox Jewish, from Lithuania, and though the Baltimores in America were not overtly religious, the family communicated a moral code that influenced their son’s concern for the underprivileged.

From Los Angeles Times

These kids come out of underprivileged, inner-city areas, and I’m just wasting my time if I haven’t put something of substance into their lives.”

From Los Angeles Times

Mr Coyle set up a sporting foundation when he retired from boxing in 2019 and has led a number of initiatives for underprivileged children, including a mobile boxing gym.

From BBC

We later spoke to one man who said he was happy to have left this remote, underprivileged existence.

From BBC

But their rigid version of legality only applies to immigrants from underprivileged backgrounds, those who have no choice but to cross borders without documents in order to survive, to aspire to a dignified life.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• depressed 
• deprived 
• destitute 
• disadvantaged 
• impoverished 
• indigent 
• needy