B1noun3K

Famine

UK //ˈfæm.ɪn//US //ˈfæmɪn//

Definition

A severe shortage of food affecting a large number of people.

In simple words: A time when many people do not have enough food.

Examples

The famine in the region led to widespread hunger and suffering.
Many charities work to provide relief during times of famine.
Famine can result from natural disasters, war, or economic instability.
The government implemented emergency measures to combat the effects of famine.
Learning about historical famines can help prevent future crises.

Usage notes

Used in discussions about hunger, poverty, and humanitarian crises. Avoid using in casual or light-hearted contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think 'famished' to connect to the idea of extreme hunger.

Collocations

cause of famine
famine relief
famine victims

Synonyms

starvation
hunger
food shortage
scarcity

Antonyms

abundance
plenty

Common mistakes

Confused with 'drought', which specifically refers to lack of water.
Incorrectly used in singular form only; note it can also be pluralized (famines).