underprivileged

American  

[uhn-der-priv-uh-lijd, -priv-lijd] / ˈʌn dərˈprɪv ə lɪdʒd, -ˈprɪv lɪdʒd /

adjective

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

   Synonyms:

   deprived, disadvantaged

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underprivileged British  

/ ˌʌndəˈprɪvɪlɪdʒd /

adjective

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

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Etymology

Origin of underprivileged

First recorded in 1920–25; under- + privileged

Example Sentences

HHS has broad spending oversight for programs for the underprivileged, including Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, early education of toddlers and foster care.

From Barron's

Today, the organization also doubles as a nonprofit that teaches underprivileged communities to skate worldwide, including surf-skate retreats that empower women and girls.

From Los Angeles Times

"There's a lot of underprivileged children and a lot of poverty and I honestly believe that rugby has the ability to transform their lives, just as it did for me."

From BBC

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

Related Words

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