Langimage
English

indigent's

|in-di-gent|

C1

/ˈɪndɪdʒənt/

(indigent)

lacking necessities

Base FormPluralNoun
indigentindigentsindigence
Etymology
Etymology Information

'indigent' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'indigens,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'egere' meant 'to need.'

Historical Evolution

'indigens' transformed into the Old French word 'indigent,' and eventually became the modern English word 'indigent' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'lacking or needing something,' and over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'poor or needy.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a person who is poor or needy.

The indigent's plight was highlighted in the charity's annual report.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Adjective 1

lacking the necessities of life due to poverty.

The indigent family struggled to make ends meet.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/03/07 21:09