DESTITUTE Synonyms: 109 Similar and Opposite Words

destitute

adjective

ˈde-stə-ˌtüt

Definition of destitute

as in impoverished

lacking money or material possessions many families were left destitute by the horrible fire

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in devoid

utterly lacking in something needed, wanted, or expected a lingering drought and a sky destitute of rain clouds

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of destitute The now-tony West London locale was considered a destitute enclave for artists and bohemians at the time, and Hockney's flat epitomized this lifestyle. — Annabelle Dufraigne, Architectural Digest, 12 June 2026 In 2022, after the war ended, Tigray was destitute. — Claire Wilmot & Gisa Tunbridge, The Dial, 12 June 2026 What’s at stake for these retirees, then, is not becoming destitute, but rather not fully enjoying the fruits of their labor. — ABC News, 26 May 2026 As the truly destitute are not likely to receive such invitations, this petty thievery is simply an abuse of hospitality and an insult to those who have offered it. — Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for destitute

Recent Examples of Synonyms for destitute

Adjective

But perhaps the most impressive thing the seemingly tireless Parton did during her 80 years was donate much of her wealth to impoverished communities.

— Donna Vickroy, Chicago Tribune, 28 Aug. 2026
The loosened restrictions will not empower Washington to pursue investment and economic cooperation with al Sharaa’s government, which could transform the impoverished country.

— Timothy Nerozzi, The Washington Examiner, 27 Aug. 2026

Definition of impoverished

Adjective

Dozens of companies have withdrawn over the past decades due to poor profits, an uncertain business outlook and concerns about harm to their reputations from making arms, especially lethal weapons.

— Mia Osmonbekov, Fortune, 31 Aug. 2026
Along the way, the audience can expect tons of humiliation, terrible second prizes, and the guarantee that Robertson will turn at least one poor soul's wrong turn into several minutes of unhinged public destruction.

— Rebecca Rosman, NPR, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of poor

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“Destitute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/destitute. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of destitute

adjective

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