Definition

The process or state of becoming poor or losing wealth.

Example

The impoverishment of the community led to many social issues.

Conversation

Have you read about the impoverishment in some communities lately?

Yeah, it's really sad to see so many people struggling.

It's alarming how quickly this can happen to anyone.

I know, we need to support local initiatives to help those in need.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Impoverishment is formed from "impoverir" (from Old French, meaning to make poor) and the suffix "-ment" (meaning the action or result of). The word refers to the process or state of becoming poor or the condition of being impoverished.

Memory Tip

Think of the action of making someone poor ('impoverir') and the result of that action ('-ment') — impoverishment is the state of being made poor.

Visually Confused Words